Probable cause
An inadvertent collision with birds during final approach at night.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported during night visual meteorological conditions, he struck multiple birds at an altitude of about 300 to 400 feet above ground on final approach. The pilot continued the approach and landed without further incident. A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA126 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 5, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Newport, Rhode Island
- Nearest airport
- Newport State (UUU)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Piper PA31
- N-number
- N102WM
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.