Incident Details
On a takeoff roll from runway 30 at Washington Dulles International Airport, Atlantic Coast Airways flight 7682 struck two wild turkeys. The captain aborted the takeoff at approximately 110 knots. None of the crewmembers or passengers reported injuries. After aborting, the captain taxied the airplane back to the gate without further incident.
Damage Assessment
A postflight inspection revealed that one turkey struck the number-two engine intake. The first officer's windshield was cracked and the surrounding structure beneath it was bent by the other turkey. The second turkey penetrated the pressure bulkhead and entered the back of the instrument panel. It did not penetrate either the windshield or its supporting structure. The area of penetration on the pressure bulkhead was not strengthened for bird impact, nor was such strengthening required.
Wildlife Management
At the time of the incident, a comprehensive airport wildlife management system was in effect at Washington Dulles International Airport.
Aircraft and Operator
The aircraft involved was a Bombardier CL-600-2B19 operated by Atlantic Coast Airways as flight 7682.