No fatalities

CFI Diverts After Deer Strike During Touch-and-Go Landing

Three Rivers, MI, United States

On May 1, 2012, a CESSNA 172M operated by FLY KALAMAZOO LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Three Rivers, MI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with a deer during the takeoff roll. 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

During touch-and-go landing practice, a certified flight instructor (CFI) struck a deer upon rotation. The CFI continued the takeoff, verified aircraft controllability, and diverted to a nearby airport with emergency services, landing without further incident.

Accident Overview

A certified flight instructor (CFI) was conducting touch-and-go landing practice when the aircraft struck a deer during the rotation phase of the second touch-and-go. The CFI continued the takeoff and assessed the aircraft for vibrations and controllability, finding no significant issues.

Pilot Actions

After confirming the aircraft was controllable, the CFI elected to divert to a nearby airport where emergency services were available. The subsequent landing was completed without further incident.

Aircraft Damage

Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed the following damage:

  • Right wing strut bent
  • Right gear mount bent
  • Right side of fuselage buckled

The aircraft was not identified by type or registration in the source.

Additional Details

The source did not specify the location, date, time of day, weather conditions, or ATC involvement. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The certified flight instructor was the sole occupant mentioned.

Contributing factors

Effect on equipment

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 May 2012 CESSNA 172M accident near Three Rivers, MI?

During touch-and-go landing practice, a certified flight instructor (CFI) struck a deer upon rotation. The CFI continued the takeoff, verified aircraft controllability, and diverted to a nearby airport with emergency services, landing without further incident.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 May 2012 CESSNA 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 May 2012 involved a CESSNA 172M, operated by FLY KALAMAZOO LLC, at Three Rivers, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with a deer during the takeoff roll.