Cessna 172G N3679L accident near Newfane, New York

Probable cause

An evasive maneuver during landing to avoid deer on the runway, which resulted in a runway overrun and collision with trees.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that during the landing roll he observed two deer walk onto the runway. He reported that he avoided the deer by adding power and applying back pressure to the yoke. After he "cleared" the deer, the airplane "dropped" back onto the runway and began to porpoise. The pilot reported that he did not have enough airspeed to take off, and there was not enough remaining runway to stop prior to impacting the trees at the end of the runway.

The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA044 for the full record.