Amateur-built VANS ACFT RV8 N232TB accident near Manzanita, Oregon

Probable cause

The airplane’s collision with two elks during landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he landed on the runway and noticed an elk running toward the nose of the airplane. He applied full throttle and climbed to avoid impact, but the propeller struck the elk. The pilot shut off the engine, and the airplane descended to the runway. When the airplane touched down on the runway, a second elk collided with the airplane's left wing. The airplane veered to the left, and the right main landing gear collapsed. The airplane then veered to the right and came to rest on the right wing.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

The Airport Facility Directory for the accident airport stated that there was wildlife in the vicinity of the 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 GAA17CA541 for the full record.