Incident Overview
A flight instructor was conducting a training flight when, at an altitude of 2,500 feet in cruise flight, he observed two large birds directly ahead of the airplane. The instructor immediately assumed control of the airplane from the student pilot and attempted to maneuver around the birds. Despite the evasive action, one of the birds impacted the left wing, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Post-Impact Actions
After the bird strike, the flight instructor assessed the aircraft's condition. He observed no flight control anomalies, indicating that the primary control surfaces remained functional. Based on this assessment, the instructor elected to continue to the destination airport. The aircraft was landed without further incident, and no emergency procedures were required.
Damage Assessment
The bird strike caused substantial damage to the left wing. The specific components affected were not detailed, but the damage was significant enough to require repair. No other damage to the aircraft was reported.
Instructor's Actions
The flight instructor's decision to take control and attempt avoidance was a direct response to the imminent collision. His subsequent evaluation of flight controls and decision to continue to the destination were based on the observed condition of the aircraft. The incident concluded with a normal landing.