CESSNA 172R near Crossville, TN — 2012-05-20

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to avoid a deer on the runway, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, during the landing roll he noticed a deer on the runway. In an attempt to avoid hitting the deer, he applied the brakes and the airplane skidded off the runway and collided with a ditch. The postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that it sustained substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Wildlife encounter (non-bird) · Landing-landing roll

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• FAA statementinterview
• Record of Conversation-Hofferother
• Photo 1-Courtesy of FAA-Rear view of nosed over airplanephotos
• Photo 2-Courtesy of FAA- Buckled firewallphotos

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