September 9, 2012, Washington, Penn., Piper PA-31-325 Navajo C/R

The airplane was substantially damaged at about 0707 Eastern time during an abnormal contact with the runway after takeoff. The airline transport pilot, co-pilot and two passengers were not injured. Visual conditions prevailed and an IFR flight plan was filed for the Part 135 on-demand aeromedical flight.

Editorial Staff

Friday, October 19, 2012 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

An aeromedical flight experienced substantial damage during takeoff after making abnormal contact with the runway while the pilot attempted to avoid a flock of geese.
The pilot's evasive action caused the landing gear to strike the runway "very hard," resulting in confirmed substantial airframe damage, with bird remains found on the fuselage.
Despite the significant damage, the pilot successfully continued the takeoff, remained in the traffic pattern, and landed the airplane without further incident, with no injuries to the four occupants.

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Shortly after lifting off the runway, a flock of geese approached from the right side of the airplane. The pilot pushed the yoke forward to avoid a collision. The landing gear contacted the runway “very hard” and the airplane bounced back into the air. The pilot continued the takeoff, remained in the traffic pattern and landed the airplane without further incident. Examination confirmed substantial damage to the airframe and bird remains were found on the fuselage.