Probable cause
An in-flight collision with birds during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff, as the airplane passed through 150 ft above ground level (agl) several birds impacted the leading edge of the left wing. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the wing structure. The pilot continued the takeoff and entered a left hand traffic pattern and eventually landed back at the airport. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA066 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 11, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kenai, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Kenai Muni (ENA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Curtiss Wright C-46R
- N-number
- N7848B
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1942
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 125
- Purpose of flight
- Business
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.