Jet diverted after bird-strike damaged both its engines

A BIRD-STRIKE led to the diversion of a badly damaged passenger jet after it took off from Ireland West Airport, an investigation has concluded.

The bmibaby aircraft with 127 passengers and five crew was scheduled to fly to Manchester when it encountered a flock of lapwings after take-off.

The bodies of eight birds were recovered from the runway after the incident, which occurred at 2.20pm on October 19th, 2009. It is estimated that about 40 birds were involved in the strike. The pilot recalled hearing a bang after take-off, with vibrations in the left engine. There were also unusual smells in the cabin.

The aircraft had to be diverted to Shannon airport, landing there without incident 27 minutes later.

The strike caused significant damage to one engine and minor damage to the second. The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) report found no bird patrol had been carried out for 2½ hours before the incident.

In its submission to the AAIU, Ireland West Airport, formerly known as Knock airport, said it had carried out four patrols that morning and there was no indication of any bird activity. It pointed out the Manual of Air Traffic Services stated “where possible” bird patrols should be carried out prior to the arrival or departure of aircraft.

Another aircraft had left six minutes prior to the bmibaby jet and had had not encountered any bird activity. It was therefore felt another inspection did not need to be carried out before the bmibaby departure, the airport claimed.

AAIU investigator Thomas Maloney said it was important airports were vigilant at all times for possible bird-strikes – especially at relatively quiet airports such as this one.

“As demonstrated by this incident, it is essential for airport authorities to remain vigilant at all times and to develop and maintain constant awareness and a proactive approach to dealing with the serious hazards to aircraft posed by birds and other wildlife.”

Ireland West had since amended its safety manual to include a bird patrol prior to the arrival or departure of scheduled or jet traffic.