Date: 4th December 2024
Location: Maiduguri Airport, Nigeria
Aircraft: Boeing 737-300, registration 5N-BBM
Operator: Max Air
Flight Number: VM-1623
Route: Maiduguri to Lagos, Nigeria
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: None reported
Summary of Events
On 4th December 2024, Max Air flight VM-1623, a Boeing 737-300, encountered a bird strike during its initial climb out of Maiduguri Airport, Nigeria. The bird was ingested into one of the engines (CFM56), causing compressor stalls and anomalies in engine performance. The crew promptly shut the affected engine down, stopped the climb, and returned to Maiduguri for a safe landing. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
Aircraft Information
The Boeing 737-300 is a classic series variant of the widely used Boeing 737 family, powered by two CFM56 turbofan engines. These engines are equipped with systems designed to handle minor foreign object ingestion but remain vulnerable to significant damage from larger debris or bird strikes.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff and Initial Climb:
• Shortly after liftoff, during the initial climb phase, one of the engines ingested a bird.
2. Compressor Stalls:
• The ingestion caused compressor stalls, leading to abnormal engine performance.
3. Engine Shutdown:
• The crew identified the issue, shut the affected engine down, and declared an emergency.
4. Return to Maiduguri:
• The aircraft ceased its climb and safely returned to Maiduguri Airport.
5. Landing and Inspection:
• Emergency services inspected the aircraft upon landing, confirming the extent of damage caused by the bird strike.
Initial Findings
Engine Damage from Bird Ingestion
• The ingestion of a bird into the engine caused compressor stalls, disrupting airflow through the engine’s core.
• Such events can lead to significant mechanical damage, reduced thrust output, and increased risk of engine failure.
Crew Actions
• The crew’s immediate decision to shut down the affected engine and return to the departure airport was in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Safety Risks
1. Engine Failure During Critical Phase of Flight:
• Bird strikes during takeoff or initial climb can compromise engine performance, increasing the risk of emergencies.
2. Structural Damage:
• Large bird strikes can cause damage to engine fan blades, cowling, or even the aircraft’s fuselage.
3. Operational Disruptions:
• Bird strike incidents often result in extended ground times for inspections and repairs, leading to schedule disruptions.
Recommendations
1. Wildlife Hazard Management:
• Enhance bird control measures around the airport to reduce the risk of bird strikes, including habitat management and the use of deterrent systems.
2. Engine Inspections:
• Conduct thorough post-incident inspections to assess the extent of engine damage and ensure airworthiness before returning the aircraft to service.
3. Crew Training:
• Regularly train flight crews in handling bird strike scenarios, with emphasis on engine failure management and emergency return protocols.
4. Data Analysis:
• Compile and analyse data from bird strike incidents to identify trends and implement preventative measures.
Safety Lessons
This incident highlights the operational challenges posed by bird strikes, particularly during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and climb. The crew’s swift and decisive actions ensured a safe outcome, demonstrating the importance of adherence to SOPs and effective communication in emergencies.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts available at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
