Amateur-built CHRISTEN EAGLE II N45WM accident near Eureka, California

Probable cause

A collision with a deer while landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the landing flare, he noticed a deer (or possibly several deer) move onto the runway. In response, he added power and attempted to maneuver away from the animal(s). The airplane impacted what he believed to be a deer. The pilot realized that the airplane had likely incurred damage that could hinder further flight, so he retarded the engine power and landed without further incident. The left wing sustained substantial damage to the leading edge. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The Federal Aviation Administration Airport Facilities Directory for the airport contained a note stating that there are deer occasionally on the runway.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12CA073 for the full record.