Probable cause
An in-flight collision with a bird while on approach.
NTSB analysis
The flight crew reported that, while in the traffic pattern and turning from base to final, a large bird impacted the leading edge of the left wing, which resulted?in substantial damage to the wing structure. The pilot was able to land safely on the intended runway. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA299 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 24, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lakeland, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Lakeland Linder Intl (LAL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N905KS
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1985
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.