The pilot reported that while in the traffic pattern at the airport in Granbury, Texas, turning from base to final, a large bird hit the leading edge of the RV-10’s right wing, which resulted in substantial damage to the wing structure and made the airplane difficult to control.
The pilot was able to land safely on the intended runway.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable Cause: The airplane’s impact with a bird while on approach.
This December 2019 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Too bad he didn’t know what kind of bird hit him. He was evidently low ({500′ or less?) which is prime bird strike altitude.