On September 16, 1994, a Cessna 210L (registration N210LX) operated by Dairy Queen OF S. Arizona, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Payson, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ANIMALS ON THE RUNWAY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night landing, an aircraft collided with an elk on the runway. The pilot did not see the animal until just before impact. The elk was killed. The airport's northern perimeter fence is only 5 feet tall, and elk have been observed leaping over it.
Incident Details
Ground witnesses reported that three elk were on the runway as the aircraft touched down during a night landing. Two of the elk ran off the runway, but the third moved in the direction of the aircraft. The pilot stated that he did not see the animal until just before the collision. The aircraft struck the elk, killing it.
Airport Wildlife Management
The airport manager reported that the airport has a fence around the property perimeter. However, the northern boundary portion is only 5 feet tall. Elk have been observed leaping over this fence, allowing them to access the runway area.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Sept 1994 Cessna 210L accident near Payson, AZ?
During a night landing, an aircraft collided with an elk on the runway. The pilot did not see the animal until just before impact. The elk was killed. The airport's northern perimeter fence is only 5 feet tall, and elk have been observed leaping over it.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Sept 1994 involved a Cessna 210L, registration N210LX, operated by Dairy Queen OF S. Arizona, Inc, at Payson, AZ.
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