Accident Summary
A twin-engine turboprop airplane, operating under Title 14 CFR Part 121, was on a scheduled flight during night visual meteorological conditions. The aircraft had been cleared for landing and was on the downwind leg, approximately 1,800 feet mean sea level (msl) and about 2 miles southwest of the destination airport, located in a coastal area. The flight crew briefly observed several birds and then felt an impact.
Damage Examination
Upon landing, damage to the leading edge of the left wing was discovered. Small portions of a bird were found on the leading edge. The crew could not identify the size and type of bird. Examination of the wing revealed denting of the leading edge and wrinkling of the upper wing surface about 4 feet inboard from the left wing tip. An internal examination of the wing disclosed two broken nose ribs.
Identification
Forensic examination of biological material taken from the airplane's wing was conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The material was identified as a Common Eider.