Overview
• Operator: United Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A320-200
• Registration: N457UA
• Flight Number: UA-2481
• Route: Chicago O’Hare (ORD) → Syracuse Hancock International (SYR)
• Date: 2 March 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None
• Nature of Incident: Possible bird strike during climb, precautionary return
Incident Summary
A United Airlines Airbus A320-200 operating flight UA-2481 from Chicago to Syracuse experienced a possible bird strike shortly after takeoff.
The crew requested to stop the climb at 5000 feet to assess the situation, reporting a ‘big hit’ on departure. However, engine indications remained normal.
After assessing the aircraft’s condition, the crew decided to return to Chicago as a precaution, landing safely on runway 27C approximately 20 minutes after departure.
A replacement aircraft was dispatched, and the flight reached Syracuse with a delay of about 3 hours.
The FAA has launched an investigation.
As of 18 hours post-incident, the occurrence aircraft remains grounded in Chicago.
Sequence of Events
Pre-Incident Conditions:
• The flight departed normally from Chicago O’Hare’s runway 28R.
• No anomalies were reported prior to departure.
Incident During Climb:
• Shortly after takeoff, the crew reported a strong impact (‘big hit’) and suspected a bird strike.
• Engine (V2527) indications remained normal despite the impact.
• The crew requested to stop their climb at 5000 feet to assess the situation.
Decision to Return:
• After evaluating the aircraft’s condition, the crew opted for a precautionary return to Chicago.
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 27C approximately 20 minutes after departure.
Aftermath:
• A replacement Airbus A320-200 (N464UA) was dispatched, and the flight resumed to Syracuse, reaching its destination with a delay of about 3 hours.
• The occurrence aircraft remains grounded at Chicago O’Hare for further inspection and possible maintenance.
• The FAA has initiated an investigation into the incident.
Investigation & Findings
Possible Causes of the Incident:
While the official cause is still under investigation, the likely explanations include:
1. Bird Strike – A high-speed collision with a bird, potentially causing damage to the airframe, windshield, or engine.
2. Foreign Object Impact – Possibility of a strike with another object (e.g., debris, ice, or ground equipment).
3. Sensor Misread – The impact may have triggered a false alert without significant damage to the aircraft.
Impact of the Incident:
• No injuries reported.
• Potential damage assessment pending aircraft inspection.
• Flight delay of approximately 3 hours for affected passengers.
• FAA investigation underway.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
For Airlines & Flight Crews:
• Enhance bird strike awareness during takeoff and climb phases, particularly in areas with high bird activity.
• Continue proactive monitoring of engine and airframe health following high-impact events.
• Improve rapid assessment protocols for possible bird strikes to minimize unnecessary diversions while ensuring safety.
For Airports & Aviation Authorities:
• Strengthen wildlife control measures around airport perimeters.
• Deploy enhanced bird detection radar to mitigate the risk of bird strikes.
• Ensure proper communication and response coordination between ATC, airlines, and emergency services in similar events.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of immediate crew response and situational awareness when encountering unexpected impacts during flight.
While the aircraft showed no immediate signs of damage, the crew made a precautionary return to Chicago, prioritizing passenger safety.
The FAA investigation will determine whether a bird strike occurred and assess any necessary safety measures to prevent future occurrences.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 4 March 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
