Incident Overview
During a night instructional flight, a flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot diverted to the Payson Airport. As the aircraft was landing, an elk ran directly in front of the aircraft. The pilots were unable to avoid hitting the animal.
Background
The Payson Airport had experienced two previous occurrences of aircraft colliding with elk at night. The airport's perimeter fence was 5 feet in height.
Response and Future Measures
The City Manager of Payson reported that the city had recently accepted a grant offer to begin the bidding process and subsequent construction of an 8-foot wall around the airport property. The official expressed hope that the fencing would be in place by the end of the calendar year.
Conclusion
No further details regarding the aircraft, occupants, or extent of damage were provided in the official source.