Probable cause
A loss of aircraft control during takeoff due to an inadvertent collision with a deer that ran onto the runway.
NTSB analysis
The certificated flight instructor (CFI) reported that during the landing roll a deer ran onto the runway in front of the airplane. The CFI applied full power and pulled up the nose to attempt a go-around. The deer struck the airplane’s nose and right main landing gear. The CFI reported that he could not maintain control of the airplane and the airplane struck the ground, sliding approximately 500 feet before coming to a rest. The airplane’s wings and empennage were substantially damaged. The CFI stated there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA409 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 18, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Saint Maries, Idaho
- Nearest airport
- St Maries Municipal (S72)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Cessna TP206B
- N-number
- N8611Z
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.