Incident Overview
On September 9, 2012, at approximately 0710 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-31-325, registration N3591P, operated by Aeronational Incorporated as a Part 135 air medical flight, was substantially damaged during an abnormal runway contact at Washington County Airport in Washington, Pennsylvania. The flight was departing from runway 27 at the time of the incident. The airline transport-rated pilot, co-pilot, and two passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan had been filed.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot's report, shortly after lifting off the runway, a flock of geese approached from the right side of the airplane. Fearing the birds could impact the cockpit windows, the pilot pushed the yoke forward to avoid a collision. As a result, the landing gear contacted the runway very hard, and the airplane bounced back into the air. The pilot was unable to abort the takeoff due to insufficient runway remaining and continued with the flight. The pilot remained in the traffic pattern and landed the airplane without further incident.
Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane and confirmed substantial damage to the airframe. Bird remains were found on the fuselage.