CESSNA 172 near Leesburg, VA — 2024-03-01

Probable cause

An in-flight collision with a bird while on the downwind leg of the airport traffic pattern.

NTSB narrative

The flight instructor reported that while on the downwind leg of the airport traffic pattern during a training flight he saw two birds in close proximity. While the student continued on the downwind leg, the flight instructor observed a black shadow in his peripheral vision and then heard a “thump.” The flight instructor informed the student of the bird strike, and with a positive exchange, took control of the airplane. He performed a normal no-flap landing and then taxied to the ramp. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the right wing had been substantially damaged.

NTSB coding

• Birdstrike · Approach-VFR pattern downwind

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• RELEASE OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, NTSB FORM 6120.15form
• INITIAL STATEMENT FROM FLIGHT INSTRUCTORinterview
• EXCERPTS FROM ILLUSTRATED PARTS CATALOGother
• INVESTIGATIVE PHOTOGRAPHSphotos

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