Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Deer During Takeoff Roll (N1439T)

Gaithersburg, MD, US

On August 9, 1996, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N1439T) was involved in an aviation accident near Gaithersburg, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the unexpected appearance of a deer on the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a pilot scanning airspeed rotated at 75-80 kts, heard a bang, and saw stall warning. He returned and landed safely; substantial damage from a deer strike.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced a deer strike during the takeoff roll at an unspecified airport. The pilot had momentarily diverted his eyes from the runway to scan the airspeed indicator. At approximately 75 to 80 knots, he initiated rotation. Shortly thereafter, he heard a loud bang. The aircraft pitched up by 7 to 8 degrees, and the stall warning light illuminated.

Pilot Actions

Despite the sudden pitch-up and stall warning, the pilot maintained control of the aircraft. He made the decision to return to the airport, where he executed a landing without further incident.

Damage Assessment

A post-incident inspection revealed that the aircraft had sustained substantial damage. The damage was attributed to a collision with a deer during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Aug 1996 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Gaithersburg, MD?

During takeoff, a pilot scanning airspeed rotated at 75-80 kts, heard a bang, and saw stall warning. He returned and landed safely; substantial damage from a deer strike.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N1439T, at Gaithersburg, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the unexpected appearance of a deer on the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06530. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.