Casualties unknown

In-Flight Upset Following Bird Strikes to Right Wing (N34820)

Yardley, PA, US

On October 13, 2001, an Aerospatiale ATR 42-320 (registration N34820) operated by Continental Express Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Yardley, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: an in flight collision with birds. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A flight crew experienced a loud bang, roll and yaw, buffeting, and autopilot disengagement while at 5,000 feet. Post-landing inspection revealed two large bird strikes to the right wing and associated damage.

Incident Description

During cruise flight at an altitude of 5,000 feet, the flight crew heard a loud bang and subsequently noted roll and yaw motions. Severe buffeting occurred, and the autopilot disengaged. The number two power lever became jammed at a position corresponding to 68 percent torque, and the airplane exhibited instability about the roll axis. The crew continued the flight and landed without further incident.

Damage Assessment

After landing, maintenance personnel and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the aircraft. Two large bird strikes were observed on the right wing. Structural damage included the right wing spar cap, outer spar, ribs, and lower skin aft of the spar. Additionally, damage was noted in the area of the center section control pulleys, and the number two engine throttle control pulley was found broken.

Findings

The inspection confirmed that the bird strikes resulted in substantial structural and control system damage. The jammed power lever and roll instability were consistent with the observed damage to the wing and throttle control pulley. No other contributing factors were identified.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011018X02112. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.