Virgin flight forced to land after bird strike

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This was published 6 years ago

Virgin flight forced to land after bird strike

By Melissa Cunningham
Updated

A Virgin flight en route to Brisbane was forced turn back to Melbourne Airport after a bird, believed to be an eagle, reportedly struck one of its engines not long after takeoff.

Flight VA319 had only just left Melbourne when the pilot reported difficulties with the plane's engine.

A Virgin flight en route to Brisbane was forced turn back to Melbourne airport after a bird, believed to be an eagle, reportedly struck one of its engines not long after takeoff.

A Virgin flight en route to Brisbane was forced turn back to Melbourne airport after a bird, believed to be an eagle, reportedly struck one of its engines not long after takeoff. Credit: Edwina Pickles

"We can confirm that Virgin Australia flight VA319 from Melbourne to Brisbane this morning was affected by a bird strike," Virgin Australia said.

"Upon suspecting a bird strike, the pilot decided to return to Melbourne and the aircraft landed safely."

"The safety of our guests and crew is always our highest priority and we apologise for any inconvenience caused by this matter."

A Melbourne Airport spokesman also confirmed the incident and said the plane safely touched down at the airport shortly before 10am.

Emergency services, including the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, attended the scene.

Nobody was injured in the incident.

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