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Commercial Pilot Reports Bird Strike During Part 91 Flight

Homer, AK, United States

On October 8, 2009, a CESSNA U206F operated by James Christensen was involved in an aviation accident near Homer, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An in-flight collision with a bird. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot experienced a bird strike during a personal cross-country flight, resulting in structural damage to the right wing spar.

Event Details

A commercial pilot was conducting a personal cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. Shortly after departure, the pilot heard a thump and decided to return to the departure airport to investigate the source of the noise.

Postflight Inspection

Upon landing, a postflight inspection revealed damage to the outboard portion of the airplane’s right wing. Bird feathers and blood were embedded in the leading edge of the wing, indicating a bird strike.

Maintenance Examination

A subsequent maintenance examination found structural damage to the airplane’s right wing spar. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical issues with the airplane.

Contributing factors

Effect on equipment

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Oct 2009 CESSNA U206F accident near Homer, AK?

A commercial pilot experienced a bird strike during a personal cross-country flight, resulting in structural damage to the right wing spar.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Oct 2009 CESSNA U206F accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Oct 2009 involved a CESSNA U206F, operated by James Christensen, at Homer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An in-flight collision with a bird.

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