No fatalities

2 Jun 2019: Piper PA32R 301T — Flippin, AR

Flippin, AR, United States

On 2 Jun 2019, a Piper PA32R 301T was involved in an aviation accident near Flippin, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The airplane’s collision with deer during the landing and the airport’s failure to provide an adequate barrier to prevent wildlife from entering the runway environment despite previous deer strikes. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that three deer ran across the runway during the landing roll, resulting in a hard strike to the right wing. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right wing and a fuel leak; no preaccident mechanical failures were noted.

Incident Overview

During the landing roll, the pilot observed three deer running from right to left across the runway. The pilot felt a hard strike on the inboard section of the right wing, saw a deer roll over the right wing, and felt the right landing gear "hop" as it ran over a second deer. The pilot maintained control of the airplane and taxied to the ramp without further incident.

Damage and Egress

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. Due to damage to the cabin door, the pilot and passenger had to exit the aircraft through the rear baggage door. After exiting, the pilot noticed copious amounts of fuel pouring from the damaged wing.

Additional Details

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot added that this was the second deer strike the airplane experienced in the previous three weeks, and airport management was aware of the situation. The Federal Aviation Administration Chart Supplement for the accident airport noted "Wildlife on and [in vicinity of] airport."

Contributing factors

Ability to respond/compensateEffect on equipmentEffect on operationContributed to outcome