Accident Details
On February 18, 2010, at 1841 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 208B (registration N892FE) struck a bird while on approach to Sacramento International Airport in Sacramento, California. The aircraft was operated by West Air, Inc., under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 as an on-demand cargo flight. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight plan was in effect. The flight had departed from Arcata Airport in Arcata, California.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, he was approaching runway 16R on final approach at 300 feet above ground level when he observed approximately five large birds. He felt an impact to the airplane, and the aircraft rolled to the right as speed decreased. The pilot corrected the roll with opposite aileron and rudder inputs, and the aircraft landed on runway 16R.
Aircraft Damage
Post-accident examination revealed damage to the right wing landing/taxi light area. The impact affected the spar web, causing the spar cap to twist downward. Two holes were punctured through the spar web. The sheet metal directly behind the landing light assembly was torn loose. Additionally, the pilot experienced some control loss because the aileron control cables had been pushed out of position.
Bird Identification
Remains from the bird were recovered from the damage site and sent to the Smithsonian Institute for identification. Test results identified the remains as those of a tundra swan.