FedEx Cargo Plane Makes Emergency Landing After Bird Strike Causes Engine Fire

A Dramatic Morning in New Jersey Skies

On a busy Saturday morning, a FedEx cargo plane was forced to make an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey after a bird strike caused a fire in one of its engines. The incident unfolded dramatically, with witnesses reporting flames visible in the sky as the plane landed safely. Lenis Valens, a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, confirmed that the plane touched down without incident, and there were no injuries reported. The fire was contained to the engine, and the three crew members on board exited the aircraft safely.

Audio recordings captured by LiveATC revealed the calm and professional handling of the situation by the pilots. In the audio, a voice is heard stating, “We need to shut down for a possible bird strike” and “We need to return to the airport.” Moments later, another voice reported, “We believe we saw their engine fall off the right wing.” The bird strike occurred when the plane was just a few hundred feet off the ground, making the pilots’ quick actions crucial in ensuring the safety of everyone on board.

The Emergency Unfolds: A Test of Training and Skill

The emergency landing happened shortly after 8 a.m., causing air traffic at the airport to be temporarily halted as a precaution. Operations resumed shortly after the situation was brought under control. FedEx spokesperson Austin Kemker later stated that the plane was en route to Indianapolis when the bird strike occurred, forcing the pilots to declare an emergency and return to Newark. Despite the engine fire and damage, the crew managed to land the plane safely, showcasing their training, expertise, and professionalism.

Kemker praised the pilots, saying, “The training, expertise, and professionalism demonstrated by our FedEx pilots were exemplary. We are thankful for the quick actions of our crew and first responders.” The incident serves as a reminder of the critical role of pilot training in managing emergency situations effectively.

Impact on Airport Operations and Eyewitness Accounts

The emergency landing caused a brief disruption to air traffic, but operations resumed quickly. However, the incident left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it. Kenneth Hoffman, a pilot on another flight, recounted how his crew learned of the emergency while preparing for departure. Hoffman shared a video on social media showing the FedEx plane on the ground with flames shooting from its side as fire rescue equipment rushed to the scene.

Hoffman praised the FedEx pilots for their handling of the situation, stating, “They handled it like champs. At the end of the day, that’s what our training is all about.” Despite the severity of the incident, Hoffman noted that the airport was only shut down for about 15 to 20 minutes, a testament to the efficiency of the response efforts.

Investigations and Broader Implications

The incident is now under investigation by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The FAA confirmed that the bird strike damaged one of the engines of the Boeing 767 aircraft. Bird strikes are a known hazard in aviation, and while they are rarely catastrophic, they can cause significant disruptions. In 2009, a bird strike was responsible for the ditching of a jetliner in the Hudson River, famously landed by Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger.

The FAA has reported an increase in wildlife strikes at U.S. airports, with over 19,000 incidents in 2023. While most do not result in emergencies, this incident highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the aviation industry. The emergency landing also comes at a time of heightened awareness of aviation safety, following several recent accidents in North America, including a commuter plane crash in Alaska and a midair collision near Washington, D.C. Both incidents resulted in significant loss of life, underscoring the need for ongoing improvements in safety measures.

Conclusion: A Call for Continued Vigilance

The successful emergency landing of the FedEx cargo plane is a testament to the skill and professionalism of its crew, as well as the swift response of airport authorities. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by wildlife strikes and the importance of robust safety protocols in aviation. As the FAA and NTSB investigate this event, it will be crucial to identify lessons that can be applied to prevent similar incidents in the future. For now, the safe outcome of this emergency is a reassuring reminder of the resilience and preparedness of the aviation industry.