Bird Strike Diverts Air India Express Flight Back to Kannur Airport

Speedy Summary

• An Air India Express flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi returned to Kannur International Airport shortly after take-off on Sunday, September 14, 2025, due to a bird strike.
• The incident occurred during take-off at 6.36 a.m.,with 180 passengers on board.
• The pilot returned as a precaution and landed safely; all passengers were unharmed.
• The aircraft underwent safety inspection and was found undamaged except for an issue with the nose sensor caused by the bird strike.
• Tools required for repair needed to be brought from Thiruvananthapuram.
• Passengers were later transported to Abu Dhabi using another flight departing from Sharjah at 2.30 p.m.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Bird strikes are a recurring aviation challenge globally, highlighting the constant need for enhanced safety measures around airports. In this case, swift action by Air India Express ensured passenger safety and minimized delays by arranging an alternative flight within hours. Though,sourcing tools from Thiruvananthapuram points toward possible limitations in logistical preparedness at some regional airports like Kannur for handling such incidents efficiently.This incident further underscores the importance of preventive strategies like wildlife hazard management near airports while also showcasing India’s growing capacity in commercial aviation services through timely responses.

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