Cirrus SR22T Pilot Lands Safely After Deer Strike Damages Elevator

Emergency Landing After Deer Strike

• ✈️ A Cirrus SR22T (N627WT) experienced a deer strike during takeoff, severely damaging its elevator.
• ⚠️ The pilot declared an emergency, reporting no elevator control and difficulty controlling the aircraft during landing attempts.
• 💡 The pilot expressed concern about landing, asking if it was acceptable to "pull CAPS over the airport" as a potential option.

Pilot's Control Challenges

• 🧠 The pilot, with 900 hours in type, described needing to apply significant forward pressure with two hands to achieve any elevator movement.
• 📉 Attempts to land resulted in the aircraft porpoising, leading the pilot to abort the first landing and attempt a go-around.
• 🚫 The aircraft's trim system was inoperative, further complicating control.

Air Traffic Control and Pilot Assistance

• 🤝 Air traffic control offered full accommodation for the emergency landing, suggesting options like entering left traffic for runway 17 or remaining outbound.
• 📞 Efforts were made to connect the pilot with experienced Cirrus pilots and Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) for advice.
• 📱 The pilot provided a phone number for a sales representative, hoping to get his opinion on the situation.

Successful Resolution

• 🎯 A CFI on the local frequency was contacted and provided guidance.
• 📉 The pilot opted for a no-flap landing, aiming for the runway intersection.
• ✅ The Cirrus SR22T eventually landed safely and exited runway 26 left, with the pilot thanking the CFI for their assistance.