DIAMOND AIRCRAFT IND INC DA 40 near Manassas, VA — 2023-11-29

Probable cause

An in-flight collision with a bird during initial climb.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during initial climb, around 700 ft above ground level, a bird impacted the leading edge of the left wing, resulting in substantial damage to the wing. After impacting the bird, the pilot informed air traffic control that he would need to return to the airport, performed a normal traffic pattern, and landed without further incident.

NTSB coding

• Birdstrike · Initial climb

Evidence available

• Video
• Photos
• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• PILOT'S STATEMENTinterview
• DA40 SERIES MAINTENANCE MANUAL EXCERPTother
• DAMAGE ASSESSMENT MFRother
• INVESTIGATION PHOTOGRAPHSphotos
• VIDEO SHOWING DELAMINATION/DISBONDINGvideo

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