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Bird Strike Damages Windscreen During Night Climb

Hyannis, MA, United States

On December 4, 2017, a CESSNA 402 C was involved in an aviation accident near Hyannis, MA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Encounter with a flock of birds during takeoff at night, resulting in multiple bird strikes and structural damage. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot encountered a flock of birds during initial climb at night, resulting in substantial damage to the windscreen and frame. The pilot declared an emergency and landed safely.

Incident Details

According to the pilot, the aircraft took off at night. During the initial climb, approximately 800 feet above ground level, the airplane flew into a flock of birds. The pilot declared an emergency with the tower and subsequently landed the airplane without further incident.

Damage Assessment

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the windscreen and the windscreen frame. No other damage was reported.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Effect on operation

Related events

Same aircraft family

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