Gates Learjet Corp. 35A N640BA accident near Grosse Ile, Michigan

Probable cause

The airplane's collision with a deer on the unfenced runway during the takeoff roll. Contributing to the accident is the airport's failure to establish a continuous fence between the runway and the nature conservancy.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, while accelerating through 130 knots, a "faint bump" was felt. The flight crew continued the takeoff and experienced difficulty controlling the airplane, but were able to stabilize the airplane in flight. The flight crew reported that there were no annunciations or warnings on the flight deck, but they were able to identify damage to the leading edge of the right wing.

The flight crew diverted to an alternate airport and landed without incident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

Following the accident, a deer was found on the runway at the departure airport. The departure airport perimeter is partially fenced and co-exists on an island with a nature conservancy.

The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation prior to hitting the deer.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA163 for the full record.