ExecJet 901 Hits Deer During Takeoff at West Palm Beach

ExecJet 901 was accelerating for departure from West Palm Beach when multiple deer entered the aircraft’s path. The crew declared an emergency, reported possible nose-gear and fuel-indication problems, and returned safely after assessing the aircraft in the air.

“The aircraft landed safely with emergency personnel standing by.”

The Strike on Runway 14

The account of the incident states that Textron 680A N901QS was departing West Palm Beach on February 11, 2026 at 00:56Z when it struck multiple deer on Runway 14. Reports cited in the description put the number of deer hit at as many as four or five, with other deer seen crossing taxiways afterward.

The runway was closed after the strike because several animals remained on the pavement. The crew immediately advised Palm Beach Departure that a deer strike had occurred and reported possible nose-gear impact and loss of fuel indications.

The aircraft climbed to 3,000 feet with its landing gear down and flaps set while the crew worked through checklists. The description says the engines continued to operate normally, an important distinction from an engine-failure emergency.

A Controlled Return

ExecJet 901 was carrying five passengers and approximately 6,900 pounds of fuel at takeoff according to the account of the incident. Controllers gave the aircraft priority handling, coordinated emergency services, and cleared other traffic while the crew assessed the damage.

The aircraft eventually made a visual approach to Runway 10L and landed safely. The description reports minor aircraft damage and no injuries. The crew shut the aircraft down after clearing the runway.

No independent independent reporting establishes a more specific mechanical diagnosis. The reporting establishes the wildlife strike, the reported secondary indications, the emergency return and the safe outcome, but not a stronger causal conclusion about damage to the nose gear or fuel system.

Sources

• YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCLXHQqV_U4
• Primary incident account: the incident account.