On February 5, 2016, a PIPER PA31 350 was involved in an aviation accident near Newport, RI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An inadvertent collision with birds during final approach at night. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a night visual approach, a pilot struck multiple birds at 300-400 feet above ground. The aircraft landed safely, but postaccident inspection revealed substantial damage to the right wing.
Incident Details
A pilot experienced a bird strike while on final approach under night visual meteorological conditions. The collision occurred at an altitude of approximately 300 to 400 feet above ground level. Despite the impact, the pilot continued the approach and completed a successful landing without further incident.
Damage
A postaccident examination of the aircraft revealed substantial damage to the right wing. The specific extent of the damage was not detailed in the report.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The flight was otherwise uneventful apart from the bird strike.
What happened in the 5 Feb 2016 PIPER PA31 350 accident near Newport, RI?
During a night visual approach, a pilot struck multiple birds at 300-400 feet above ground. The aircraft landed safely, but postaccident inspection revealed substantial damage to the right wing.
Were there any fatalities in the 5 Feb 2016 PIPER PA31 350 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Feb 2016 involved a PIPER PA31 350, at Newport, RI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
An inadvertent collision with birds during final approach at night.
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