A close call unfolded in the skies over Portland on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, as an Alaska Airlines flight destined for Orlando encountered a bird strike shortly after takeoff. The incident, which occurred around 8:10 A.M., prompted the pilots of the Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft to take immediate action and execute an emergency landing back at Portland International Airport.
Fortunately, the incident resulted in no injuries to the passengers or crew. The airline swiftly facilitated a safe landing, prioritizing the well-being of everyone onboard. The Port of Portland confirmed the emergency landing was a precautionary measure, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew.
The Boeing 737 MAX 9, which had been in service since May 2023, collided with a bird shortly after departing Portland. Bird strikes can cause significant structural damage to aircraft, depending on the location of impact. This particular incident underscores the importance of immediate action in such situations.
Following the emergency landing, passengers were rebooked on alternate flights to Orlando. The aircraft involved in the incident was temporarily removed from service for a thorough inspection to assess any potential damage caused by the bird strike.
“While immediate safety is our chief concern after a bird strike, these incidents can also cause inconvenience for travelers, particularly when flights are delayed,” an Alaska Airlines representative stated. The airline emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew is their top priority in such situations.
The event echoes a similar incident in March when an American Airlines flight experienced a bird strike in Minneapolis, resulting in a delay. The quick response by Alaska Airlines in this latest incident helped to minimize disruption for passengers, allowing them to continue their journey to Florida with minimal delay.
The aircraft remains sidelined until the inspection is complete and it is deemed safe for travel. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of bird strikes and the crucial role of pilots and airline staff in ensuring passenger safety.