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NTSB Report
September 13, 2007 · Cessna 172L · N7221Q
Helena, MT
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
September 13, 2007
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Helena, MT
Aircraft
Cessna 172L
Tail Number
N7221Q
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
LAX07CA279
According to the pilot, as he was about 50 feet above ground level on short final over the threshold, the right wing leading edge of the airplane struck several birds. There were no significant changes in how the flight controls felt on subsequent inputs, and the airplane landed without further incident. The pilot stated that the flight departed the airport about 10 minutes prior to the collision, and they were conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings in moderate crosswind conditions. He stated that there were no NOTAM's in place warning of birds in the immediate area of the airport, and he did not have time to maneuver away from the birds.
NTSB Probable Cause
unexpected collision with birds on short final that damaged the airplane wing structure.
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, as he was about 50 feet above ground level on short final over the threshold, the right wing leading edge of the airplane struck several birds. There were no significant changes in how the flight controls felt on subsequent inputs, and the airplane landed without further incident. The pilot stated that the flight departed the airport about 10 minutes prior to the collision, and they were conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings in moderate crosswind conditions. He stated that there were no NOTAM's in place warning of birds in the immediate area of the airport, and he did not have time to maneuver away from the birds.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:30 MDT
Nearest AirportHelena Regional Airport (0nm)
Runway27
Runway Length9000 ft
Runway Width150 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna 172L
Tail NumberN7221Q
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 · Reciprocating
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 54 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDusk
Wind320° @ 12 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 3400 ft
Temperature / Dew Point48 / 37 C
Altimeter30.17 inHg
Observation Time01:53
Weather SourceWFAC