No fatalities

Deer Strike During Training Takeoff (N9373W)

Coatesville, PA, US

On November 16, 2001, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N9373W) was involved in an aviation accident near Coatesville, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with a deer during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a training takeoff, a student pilot rotated the aircraft at about 70 knots. The flight instructor saw a blur and felt an impact, then took control and landed. After landing, a deceased deer was found near the runway with fur on a propeller blade.

Overview

A training flight involving a student pilot and a flight instructor experienced a wildlife encounter during the takeoff roll. The incident occurred when the aircraft was rotated at approximately 70 knots, according to the instructor's account.

Sequence of Events

The student pilot initiated the takeoff and rotated the airplane at about 70 knots. During this rotation, the flight instructor noticed a "blur" on the left side of the airplane and simultaneously felt an impact. Acting promptly, the instructor took control of the airplane, reduced power, and executed a landing on the remaining runway.

Aftermath

After exiting the airplane, both pilots observed a deceased deer lying near the runway. An inspection of the propeller revealed deer fur on one blade, confirming a collision with the animal during the takeoff.

No further details about the aircraft, location, or injuries were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Nov 2001 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Coatesville, PA?

During a training takeoff, a student pilot rotated the aircraft at about 70 knots. The flight instructor saw a blur and felt an impact, then took control and landed. After landing, a deceased deer was found near the runway with fur on a propeller blade.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Nov 2001 Piper PA-28-235 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Nov 2001 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N9373W, at Coatesville, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with a deer during the takeoff roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011126X02294. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.