Incident Overview
An airline transport certificated pilot was conducting a scheduled domestic passenger flight under visual flight rules (VFR). While in cruise flight at an altitude of 2,500 feet mean sea level and an airspeed of approximately 200 knots, the pilot observed a sea gull that suddenly dove toward the water. The bird subsequently struck the right wing of the aircraft, outboard of the right engine nacelle.
Post-Strike Actions
Following the impact, the pilot continued to fly the aircraft and executed a landing without any reported problems.
Damage Assessment
Examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the right wing's leading edge upper surface. The structure sustained downward and aft crushing measuring about 18 inches across and 8 inches deep. The damage affected multiple components, including several ribs, the forward spar, the leading edge skin, and the deice boot.