Incident Overview
During a night cross-country flight, a flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot encountered a deer strike while departing from an airport. The pair had just completed the first leg of their journey and were initiating the takeoff roll for the return segment to their home base.
Sequence of Events
As the airplane accelerated down the runway, a deer ran onto the runway and collided with the aircraft's right wing. In response, the CFI assumed control of the airplane from the student. The instructor determined that insufficient runway distance remained to safely abort the takeoff and therefore continued the departure.
After becoming airborne, the CFI assessed the airplane's handling and noted no abnormalities in flight control response. Consequently, the decision was made to proceed to the intended destination. The airplane landed without further incident.
Post-Flight Examination
Following the flight, a postaccident examination of the aircraft revealed substantial damage to the right wing structure. No other damage was reported.
Conclusion
The event involved a wildlife strike during takeoff, with the flight crew managing the situation by continuing the takeoff and completing the flight to a safe landing. The aircraft sustained significant damage to one wing.