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.