In a dramatic aviation incident that tested emergency response protocols, a Shree Airlines aircraft carrying 179 people successfully executed an emergency landing after suffering a bird strike while approaching Nepal's main international airport. The harrowing event occurred on Monday morning but culminated in the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew members.
The Incident Unfolds
The Shree Airlines flight, identified as Airbus 320 with registration 9N-ANH, was on its final approach to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu when the collision occurred. According to airport officials, the aircraft struck multiple birds during its descent, immediately compromising the aircraft's systems.
The pilot demonstrated exceptional skill and composure by maintaining control of the damaged aircraft and executing a safe landing despite the emergency situation. The incident took place around 10:45 AM local time, with the aircraft carrying 171 passengers and 8 crew members who all emerged unharmed from the terrifying experience.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Airport emergency services were immediately activated and rushed to the runway as the aircraft made its emergency landing. Preliminary inspections confirmed significant damage to the aircraft's nose and at least one engine, rendering the plane temporarily inoperable.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, focusing on bird activity patterns around the airport and assessing whether additional measures are needed to prevent similar occurrences. Airport authorities confirmed that normal flight operations resumed after a brief disruption during the emergency response.
Broader Implications for Aviation Safety
This incident highlights the persistent challenge of bird strikes in aviation safety, particularly at airports located near urban areas or water bodies that attract bird populations. Tribhuvan International Airport has experienced similar incidents in the past, raising questions about wildlife management around airport perimeters.
Aviation experts emphasize that bird strikes remain one of the most common aviation hazards worldwide, with thousands occurring annually. While most result in minimal damage, incidents like the Shree Airlines emergency demonstrate the potential for serious consequences without proper safety protocols and pilot training.
The successful handling of this emergency has been praised by aviation authorities, who noted that the incident could have had much more severe outcomes without the crew's professional response and the airport's emergency preparedness.
