Incident Overview
During a night landing, a pilot reported that the airplane struck two deer on the runway. The pilot stated he did not see the deer on the runway during the approach and landing. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right horizontal stabilizer.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Airport Information
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Facility Directory for the accident airport stated: "Deer and birds on and [in the vicinity of the airport]." The pilot noted that the airport's fencing was intermittent and that deer were frequently seen in and around the airport. The airport manager added that the perimeter fence only covered the eastern and southern perimeters and that a deer strike occurred at least once every two years.
Wildlife Strike History
According to the FAA Wildlife Strike Database, the last reported wildlife strike at the airport occurred on April 10, 2012. The FAA maintains a comprehensive program to address wildlife hazards through a database and a reporting strike form.
FAA Recommendations
The FAA, under National Part 139 CertALert No. 16-03, Recommended Wildlife Exclusion Fencing, provides airfield exclusion methods for deer and other large mammals.