Overview
• Operator: Transavia
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: PH-HXN
• Flight Number: HV-5133
• Route: Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Barcelona, Spain
• Date: 25 January 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Injuries: None reported
• Damage: None reported
Incident Summary
Transavia flight HV-5133, operated by a Boeing 737-800, was performing its takeoff roll on runway 18L at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) when the flight crew identified a large flock of at least 100 birds ahead. To prevent a potential bird strike, the crew initiated a high-speed rejected takeoff.
Following the rejected takeoff, the aircraft came to a complete stop on the runway. The crew informed air traffic control (ATC) that they had executed a high-speed abort and requested emergency services to inspect the brakes for overheating before proceeding further.
The aircraft returned to the apron for additional safety checks. After remaining at the stand for approximately one hour, the aircraft was cleared to depart and successfully completed the flight to Barcelona with a delay of 75 minutes.
Sequence of Events
1. Takeoff Acceleration & Bird Hazard Identification
• The aircraft was cleared for takeoff on runway 18L at Amsterdam Schiphol.
• During the acceleration phase, the crew sighted a flock of over 100 birds ahead on the runway.
2. High-Speed Rejected Takeoff
• The crew initiated a rejected takeoff procedure at high speed, applying full braking to bring the aircraft to a stop.
• ATC was notified, and emergency services were requested to check the aircraft’s braking system for overheating or damage.
3. Runway Clearance and Aircraft Inspection
• The aircraft stopped safely on the runway, and emergency responders inspected the brakes.
• No issues were found, and the aircraft was taxied back to the apron for further checks.
4. Flight Resumption & Delayed Departure
• After about one hour at the stand, the aircraft was cleared to resume operations.
• The flight departed for Barcelona and landed with a 75-minute delay.
Investigation and Safety Measures
• Bird Strike Risk at Schiphol Airport
• Schiphol Airport is known for implementing wildlife hazard management due to its proximity to wetlands.
• Bird control measures include habitat management, bird dispersal techniques, and active monitoring.
• Effectiveness of Crew Decision-Making
• The flight crew made the correct decision to reject the takeoff, as a high-speed bird strike could have led to serious engine damage or structural failure.
• High-speed rejected takeoffs place considerable stress on the brakes, and requesting an emergency inspection was a standard safety procedure.
• Potential Impact on Aircraft Systems
• No structural damage or mechanical failures were reported following the rejected takeoff.
• The brakes did not overheat beyond operational limits, allowing the aircraft to depart within an hour.
Regulatory and Airline Response
• Transavia Statement
• Transavia confirmed the rejected takeoff was executed due to a significant bird hazard on the runway.
• The airline stated that passenger safety was the priority, and after routine checks, the aircraft was cleared for departure.
• Schiphol Airport Wildlife Management
• Airport authorities reviewed the bird control procedures to assess whether further mitigation measures were required.
• Bird activity in the area remains an ongoing operational concern, particularly for aircraft operating on runway 18L.
• Dutch Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Involvement
• The Dutch CAA was notified of the incident, but given the absence of damage or injuries, no formal investigation was launched.
Safety Considerations and Recommendations
• Enhanced Bird Strike Prevention Measures
• Schiphol Airport should continue monitoring bird movement and adjust wildlife control measures accordingly.
• Additional bird deterrence techniques, such as falconry or acoustic deterrents, could be deployed in high-risk areas.
• Crew Training & Decision-Making
• The decisive action taken by the flight crew aligns with industry best practices for rejected takeoffs.
• Airlines should continue reinforcing threat awareness and decision-making skills for bird strike scenarios.
• Passenger Awareness and Communication
• Passengers should be informed that rejected takeoffs are a routine safety measure when wildlife or mechanical issues arise.
• Airlines should provide clear and reassuring communication in such situations to minimize passenger anxiety.
Aircraft Status and Next Steps
• The Boeing 737-800 remained at the stand for approximately one hour for inspections.
• The aircraft was cleared for departure and continued its flight to Barcelona.
• No mechanical or operational issues were reported following the rejected takeoff.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 26 January 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.
