Incident Overview
On August 10, 2014, at approximately 0605 eastern daylight time, a deHavilland DHC-8-100, registration N815EX, operated by Piedmont Airlines as US Airways Express flight 4206, struck a flock of geese during the takeoff roll from Middletown Harrisburg International Airport (KMDT) in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The flight, a regularly scheduled passenger service under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121, was destined for Philadelphia International Airport (KPHL).
Flight Crew Actions
The captain was the pilot flying and the first officer the pilot monitoring. About 15 seconds into the takeoff roll, before reaching V1, the captain observed a large group of geese flying from right to left in front of the airplane. He immediately initiated a rejected takeoff as the airplane impacted multiple geese on the front windshield and the right engine propeller, causing a severe vibration. The flight crew shut down the right engine as the airplane slowed and subsequently returned to the gate.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of the airplane revealed damage to the right propeller, a broken passenger window, and damage to the fuselage skin and stringers near the broken window. No injuries to passengers or crew were reported.