Primary finding
Probable cause
A loss of aircraft control during takeoff due to an inadvertent collision with a deer that ran onto the runway.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that during the landing roll a deer ran onto the runway in front of the airplane. The CFI applied full power and pulled up the nose to attempt a go-around. The deer struck the airplane’s nose and right main landing gear. The CFI reported that he could not maintain control of the airplane and the airplane struck the ground, sliding approximately 500 feet before coming to a rest. The airplane’s wings and empennage were substantially damaged. The CFI stated there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that during the landing roll, a deer ran onto the runway in front of the airplane. The CFI applied full power and pulled up the nose to attempt a go around. The deer struck the airplane’s nose and right main landing gears followed by the empennage. The CFI reported he could not maintain control of the airplane and the airplane struck the ground and slid approximately 500 feet before coming to a rest. The airplane’s wings and empennage were substantially damaged. The CFI stated there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.