Probable cause
The airplane’s collision with a bird during a practice instrument approach.
NTSB analysis
The pilot receiving instruction reported that, while inbound on a practice instrument landing system approach about 1 mile from the runway, something struck the left wing. He added that he landed the airplane without further incident.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the left wing sustained substantial damage. Given the evidence and the pilot's, it is likely that a bird struck the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA086 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 3, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Reno, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- Reno/Stead (RTS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182
- N-number
- N9003M
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1976
- 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.