Incident Overview
A pilot experienced a sudden noise and jolt during final approach to a destination airport. After landing, inspection revealed damage to the right wing, including a piece of wood lodged in the tiedown ring. The incident occurred after sunset with calm winds, no ceiling, and unlimited visibility.
Flight and Approach
Air traffic control instructed the pilot to enter a left downwind for the active runway. The pilot entered the downwind at approximately 1,500 feet and confirmed the pattern altitude due to nearby radio towers. The pilot extended the downwind beyond the towers, then turned left base and final. During the turn to final, the pilot slightly overshot the runway centerline and corrected. The tower controller noticed the runway edge lights (MIRL) were at low intensity, advised the pilot, and increased the intensity, making the runway more visible. The runway end identifier lights (REIL) were out of service, and the displaced threshold was unlighted.
Damage and Findings
On final approach, the pilot heard a "thunk" sound and felt a slight jolt. The pilot continued the approach, landing beyond the displaced threshold, and taxied to the ramp. Post-flight inspection revealed yellowish goo on top of the right wing, a large dent in the anti-ice panel on the outer leading edge, a small dent in the anti-ice panel farther inboard, a third dent on the leading edge of the composite cap at the wingtip, and chipped paint on the upper wing surface. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector found a piece of wood with tree bark wedged between the right wing tiedown ring and the wing structure. Maintenance personnel determined that the solid laminate and sandwich structure of the wing had been substantially damaged. Examination of the surrounding area showed trees along and below the flight path. The Airport Facility Directory advised of 88-foot-tall trees located 450 feet from the runway, with a 3:1 slope to clear.