A Fiji Airways flight was safely diverted back to Christchurch Airport following a bird strike incident that triggered a full emergency response. The aircraft reported the bird strike shortly after takeoff, prompting notifications to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, police, ambulance services, and airport staff to prepare for the unfolding situation.
Fiji Airways confirmed that the plane circled over the city to burn fuel and achieve the necessary landing weight for a safe return. Thankfully, all passengers and crew remained unharmed, with no injuries reported during the incident. The airline emphasized that safety is their highest priority while they managed the situation, with flight engineering teams closely monitoring the aircraft’s status.
This event highlights continued aviation safety concerns related to bird strikes, which have risen in recent years. The Fijian government has been proactive in addressing these issues, with Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, recently discussing a National Wildlife Hazard Management committee to address the risks associated with wildlife near airport flight paths. This committee aims to mitigate the rising number of bird strikes, which went from 24 incidents in 2022 to an anticipated 41 in 2024.
These developments underscore a broader commitment from Fiji Airways and the Fijian authorities to ensure safe travel for passengers while addressing environmental factors that pose risks. While such incidents can disrupt airline operations, the dedication to safety and the efficient handling of emergencies provides assurance to travelers that the airline is equipped to manage unexpected challenges in air travel.