Alaska Airlines Cargo Jet Makes Emergency Landing After Bird Strike

An Alaska Airlines cargo flight was forced to make an emergency landing in Cincinnati after a severe bird strike left the aircraft blood-splattered and damaged, according to a preliminary report released February 25 by the National Transportation Safety Board.

The incident occurred on January 28 when Alaska Airlines Flight 2616, a Boeing 737-800, operating as an Amazon cargo service from Cincinnati to Hebron, Kentucky, encountered a flock of Canada geese shortly after takeoff. According to investigators, at least eight geese were either struck by the aircraft or ingested into its engines.

Moments before impact, the captain reportedly called out “birds!” as the crew observed the flock ahead. The NTSB report states that the crew then felt multiple impacts on both the left and right sides of the aircraft. The collision resulted in visible damage and biological residue across portions of the plane.

Following the strike, the crew declared an emergency and returned to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. The aircraft landed safely without reported injuries.

Bird strikes remain a significant aviation hazard, particularly during takeoff and landing when aircraft operate at lower altitudes where wildlife activity is more common. Canada geese, in particular, pose heightened risks due to their large size and tendency to travel in flocks.

The NTSB investigation is ongoing, and further analysis will determine the full extent of any engine or structural damage. Wildlife management programs at major airports are designed to mitigate such risks, but officials note that bird strikes cannot be entirely eliminated.

The incident highlights the continued importance of pilot vigilance and rapid crew response in preventing potentially catastrophic outcomes during wildlife encounters.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, nypost.com