Primary finding
Probable cause
An in-flight collision with a bird.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that about 12 miles from the airport of departure, while returning after a local flight, he observed a large bird on his right side. He attempted to avoid the bird but was unsuccessful and the bird impacted the leading edge of the right wing. The pilot returned to the airport of departure and landed safely. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the right wing was substantially damaged. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.