Plane Strikes Several Deer During Takeoff Forcing Emergency Landing

What was supposed to be a routine departure turned into a shocking wildlife collision Tuesday night when a private jet struck multiple deer during takeoff in Florida — forcing an emergency landing just minutes later.

The incident unfolded around 7:55 p.m. on February 10 at North Palm Beach County General Aviation Airport, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

A Cessna Citation jet was accelerating down the runway when it suddenly collided with several deer that had wandered onto the airfield. The FAA confirmed the aircraft managed to land safely at nearby Palm Beach International Airport after the mid-takeoff scare.

According to aviation reports, seven people were on the aircraft at the time. Despite the dramatic collision, there were no reported injuries. The jet sustained minor damage and was reportedly towed after landing.

Dispatch audio obtained by WPBF 25 News captured officials noting the aircraft would need to be removed from the area following the emergency landing.

The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident but did not confirm exactly how many deer were involved.

While bird strikes are far more common, collisions involving deer are considered highly unusual.

Between 1990 and 2024, aircraft strikes have involved hundreds of bird species and dozens of mammals, according to federal wildlife strike data. Still, seasoned pilots say deer collisions are exceedingly rare.

Local pilot Michael Leighton told WPBF 25 News that in 16,000 flight hours — the equivalent of two full years in the air — he has never struck an animal.

“It’s like getting hit by lightning,” he said. “Can it happen? Sure. Is it likely? Probably not.”

Wildlife management remains an ongoing challenge for airports across the country, especially in areas where wooded land borders runways.

As for this Florida flight, what began as a routine evening departure quickly became a nerve-racking reminder that sometimes, the biggest danger isn’t in the sky — it’s on the ground.