On May 31, 1998, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N9324N) was involved in an aviation accident near Sikesville, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during a go-around maneuver initiated due to wildlife on the runway, which resulted in the aircraft striking trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost directional control and struck trees after attempting to climb over deer on the runway during the final phase of landing.
What happened
The accident occurred while the airplane was conducting a landing approach. During the critical phase of the landing flare, the aircraft was operating at an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 feet above ground level. At this moment, two deer suddenly ran across the runway directly in the flight path.
In response to the wildlife hazard, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver, attempting to climb the airplane over the animals. However, the aircraft was operating behind its power curve at low airspeed and high angle of attack. This aerodynamic condition prevented the engine from providing sufficient thrust to sustain a climb. Consequently, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft.
The airplane descended rapidly and veered off the left side of the runway surface. It subsequently impacted a small group of trees located adjacent to the airfield boundary.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during a go-around maneuver initiated due to wildlife on the runway, which resulted in the aircraft striking trees.