GAA17CA429

Factual narrative

The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, multiple geese flew across the runway. One goose struck the propeller and another struck the windshield. Subsequently, the airplane yawed to the right, into tall grass and the airplane spun 180°, coming to rest with the landing gear sheared off. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, multiple geese flew across the runway. One goose struck the propeller, and another struck the windshield. Subsequently, the airplane yawed to the right into tall grass, and the airplane then spun 180° and came to rest with the landing gear sheared off. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Environmental issues-Physical environment-Object/animal/substance-Animal(s)/bird(s)-Ability to respond/compensate - C