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Piper PA-38-112 Strikes Deer on Landing, Left Main Gear Separates (N6401A)

Chesapeake, VA, US

On August 21, 2006, a Piper PA 38-112 (registration N6401A) operated by Bishop Aviation Llc was involved in an aviation accident near Chesapeake, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The presence of deer on the runway during the landing roll, which resulted in a collision. A factor in the accident was the dark night. 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 night landing, a Piper PA-38-112 pilot observed a deer ahead on the runway and maneuvered left, striking a second unseen deer with the left main landing gear, which then separated. The aircraft came to rest off the runway.

Accident Sequence

While performing a night landing, the pilot of a Piper PA-38-112 noticed a deer approximately 30 feet in front of the airplane positioned in the center of the runway. In response, the pilot applied power and turned the aircraft to the left. During this maneuver, the left main landing gear struck a second deer that had not been visible to the pilot. The impact caused the left main landing gear to detach from the aircraft. Subsequently, the left wing made contact with the runway surface, and the airplane skidded off the left side of the runway. It came to a stop after colliding with multiple runway lights.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no issues with the performance or handling of the aircraft before or during the accident sequence. No malfunctions or deficiencies were noted.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Aug 2006 Piper PA 38-112 accident near Chesapeake, VA?

During a night landing, a Piper PA-38-112 pilot observed a deer ahead on the runway and maneuvered left, striking a second unseen deer with the left main landing gear, which then separated. The aircraft came to rest off the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Aug 2006 Piper PA 38-112 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Aug 2006 involved a Piper PA 38-112, registration N6401A, operated by Bishop Aviation Llc, at Chesapeake, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The presence of deer on the runway during the landing roll, which resulted in a collision. A factor in the accident was the dark night.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060925X01388. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.