Probable cause
An in-flight collision with a bird in the airport traffic pattern.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while during a crosswind turn in the airport traffic pattern, about 2,000 ft mean sea level, a bird struck the airplane. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR25LA086 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 2, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ramona, California
- Nearest airport
- Ramona Airport (RNM)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172P
- N-number
- N5268K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1980
- 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.