KLM Airbus A330 Returns to Amsterdam Following Bird Strikes in Both Engines

A KLM Airbus A330-200, registration PH-AOA, was forced to return to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on November 15, 2024, after striking a flock of birds shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was operating flight KL-661, scheduled to travel from Amsterdam (AMS) to Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

Incident Details

The aircraft had departed from Amsterdam's runway 24 and was climbing out when the crew reported multiple bird strikes affecting both of the plane's CF6 engines. The impact caused significant vibrations, prompting the pilots to halt the climb at 6,000 feet (FL060). Exercising caution, they decided to remain near the airport and prepare for an immediate return.

The Airbus made a safe landing on runway 18R approximately 30 minutes after departure. There were no reports of injuries among passengers or crew.

Aftermath

The aircraft remains grounded at Schiphol Airport for inspection and maintenance, more than eight hours after its return. The extent of the damage to the engines has not yet been disclosed, but it underscores the potential risks posed by bird strikes, particularly when they affect multiple engines.

Bird Strikes and Aviation Safety

Bird strikes are a known hazard in aviation, with incidents like this highlighting the importance of robust safety protocols. Engine manufacturers design engines to withstand some level of bird ingestion, but simultaneous strikes on multiple engines pose significant challenges.

This event adds to a growing number of bird strike incidents in recent months, further emphasizing the need for effective bird management strategies at airports worldwide.