PIPER PA-44-180T near Loxahatchee, FL — 2013-05-11

Probable cause

An in-flight collision with a bird.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, while at an altitude of 1,700 feet mean sea level, a large bird struck the right horizontal stabilizer, which resulted in substantial damage. The pilot declared an emergency, diverted, and landed the airplane without further incident.

NTSB coding

• Birdstrike · Enroute-cruise

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Photo 1: Front view of Damaged Horizontal Stabilizer (Courtesy of Student)photos
• Photo 2: Side view of damaged horizontal stabilizer (Courtesy of Student Pilot)photos

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