What happened
On April 16, 2022, a Vulcanair S.p.A P.68C, registration OY-MNS, was conducting a flight over Husum, Germany, to perform a calibration test of onboard camera equipment. The aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at an altitude of 1,800 feet and a speed of 12 knots. During the procedure, the crew observed a large flock of birds on a direct collision course with the aircraft. Despite evasive maneuvers attempted by the pilots, the aircraft struck one or more birds.
Following the impact, the pilots identified significant damage to the aircraft's structure. They immediately decided to return to Husum Schwesing (EDXJ), where the aircraft landed safely without further incident. There were no fatalities and no injuries reported among the two pilots on board.
The investigation
The Danish Accident Investigation Board (Havarikommissionen) was notified of the accident by the pilot on the day of the occurrence. Because the event took place over German airspace, the Danish authorities coordinated with the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU). The investigation focused on the impact and the resulting damage to the airframe. The BFU subsequently informed the Danish commission that they would not be opening a separate safety investigation.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained major structural damage to the inner section of the right wing leading edge.
- Minor damage was also noted on an antenna and the rudder.
- The crew identified the flock as being composed of cormorants.
- The primary cause of the accident was a bird strike occurring during a low-speed calibration flight.