3 May 2008: Vans Aircraft RV-7A — Sean Patrick Farrell

3 May 2008: Vans Aircraft RV-7A — Sean Patrick Farrell

No fatalities • Hollister, CA, United States

Probable cause

The in-flight collision with a bird.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that during takeoff initial climb, a large bird impacted the leading edge of the left wing slightly outboard of the fuel tank. The airplane immediately yawed and banked to left. The pilot attempted to straighten the airplane and land, however, despite his control inputs, the airplane continued to roll to the left. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground and the airplane cart wheeled. Examination of the airplane revealed structural damage to the outboard sections of both wings and empennage. No mechanical anomalies were reported with the engine or airframe.

Contributing factors

  • cause Animal(s)/bird(s)

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 260/11kt, vis 6sm

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