NTSB Report: Cirrus SR22 Hits Deer on Takeoff, Loses Elevator Control

Aircraft Incident Overview

• ✈️ A Cirrus SR22 (November 627 Whiskey Tango) experienced an incident during a night takeoff from a turf runway near Stanwood, Michigan on July 27th, 2025.
• 🦌 The aircraft collided with a deer shortly after takeoff.

Loss of Control and Emergency Landing

• ⚠️ Following the deer strike, the pilot reported a loss of elevator control, stating "I have no elevator control."
• 🆘 The pilot declared an emergency and requested assistance to find a suitable service center to land, expressing concerns about controllability.
• ✅ The airplane ultimately landed without further incident after the pilot elected to perform a no-flap landing.

Post-Accident Findings

• 🛠️ Examination revealed damage to the left flap and substantial damage to the left elevator.
• 🚨 Airport directory remarks indicated a warning to pilots about deer on and in the vicinity of the airport.
• 📊 The FAA's wildlife strike database did not contain any prior reports for this specific accident airport.