Overview
On January 2nd, 2025, an Air Azores Airbus A320-200, registration CS-TKP, performing flight S4-124 from Ponta Delgada (LPPD) to Lisbon (LPPT), experienced multiple bird strikes during its departure from runway 12. The aircraft encountered a flock of gulls shortly after becoming airborne, resulting in significant impacts to both engines, the right main landing gear, the belly, and both wings. The crew stopped the climb at 2,500 feet and returned safely to Ponta Delgada approximately 10 minutes after departure.
There were no injuries among the passengers or crew, but the aircraft sustained considerable damage, requiring engine repairs and inspections.
Incident Summary
Flight Details
• Aircraft Type: Airbus A320-200
• Registration: CS-TKP
• Flight Number: S4-124
• Operator: Air Azores
• Route: Ponta Delgada (LPPD) to Lisbon (LPPT)
• Passengers and Crew: Not specified
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff: The aircraft departed runway 12 at Ponta Delgada and encountered a flock of gulls shortly after liftoff.
2. Bird Strikes: Both the left and right engines experienced impacts, with passengers reporting three to four loud bangs in rapid succession from each engine.
3. Aborted Climb: The crew detected abnormal engine noises and vibrations and stopped the climb at 2,500 feet, initiating a return to Ponta Delgada.
4. Safe Landing: The aircraft landed safely on runway 12 approximately 10 minutes after departure, with emergency services on standby.
Technical Analysis
Bird Strike Damage
• Engines: Both the left and right engines sustained multiple strikes. A post-flight inspection revealed:
• Fan blades of the right-hand engine require replacement.
• Damage to engine internals and fan casing needs further assessment.
• Airframe:
• Birds struck the right main landing gear, belly, and both wings.
• Feathers and a bird carcass were found lodged in the left-hand slats.
Passenger Observations
Passengers reported:
• Loud bangs from both engines immediately after liftoff.
• Unusual engine noises and noticeable vibrations in the cabin during the climb.
Immediate Actions
1. Aircraft Inspection:
• The occurrence aircraft underwent a thorough inspection at Ponta Delgada.
• The engines, landing gear, and wings were examined for structural integrity and required maintenance.
2. Replacement Aircraft:
• A replacement Airbus A321-200N, registration CS-TSF, was dispatched to complete the flight to Lisbon with a delay of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Contributing Factors
1. Presence of Birds:
• Ground observers noted that gulls were sitting on the runway and flew up as the aircraft departed.
2. Airport Wildlife Control:
• The incident highlights the importance of robust wildlife management practices at airports, particularly in regions with significant bird activity.
Recommendations
1. Wildlife Management Enhancements:
• Strengthen bird control measures at Ponta Delgada Airport, such as active deterrence systems and habitat management, to minimize the risk of bird strikes.
2. Engine Inspections:
• Conduct detailed inspections and repairs of both engines, including replacement of damaged components, to ensure continued airworthiness.
3. Crew Training:
• Reinforce training for bird strike scenarios, focusing on immediate response, engine performance evaluation, and decision-making for returning to the departure airport.
4. Passenger Communication:
• Maintain clear communication with passengers during such events to ensure calm and cooperation.
Conclusion
The quick decision-making and professionalism of the flight crew ensured a safe outcome despite the significant challenges posed by multiple bird strikes. The incident underscores the importance of wildlife management and preventive measures at airports to mitigate similar occurrences in the future.
Disclaimer
This report is based on the facts available at the time of writing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologise for any missed details or inaccuracies. If you are the rightful owner of any associated images and wish for their removal, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
