Chennai: An Air India flight from Colombo to Chennai, AI274, experienced a bird strike during landing on October 7, 2025. The aircraft touched down safely at Chennai International Airport, and all 158 passengers onboard disembarked without any injuries. However, a subsequent inspection revealed damage to an engine blade, prompting Air India to cancel the return flight to Colombo to ensure passenger safety and aircraft integrity.
Incident Details
The bird strike occurred as the aircraft was on its final approach to Chennai. While the pilots executed a safe landing, the impact was strong enough to warrant a detailed examination of the aircraft’s engines. Air India immediately initiated standard safety protocols, including grounding the aircraft for a comprehensive inspection.
Out of the 158 passengers, 137 were rebooked on an alternative flight that departed later the same day. The airline coordinated closely with airport authorities and ground staff to ensure that the passengers were accommodated and informed about the change in schedule.
Airline Response
Air India issued a statement assuring that passenger safety remains its top priority. The airline confirmed that the affected aircraft would undergo thorough maintenance checks before being cleared for any future flights. Engineers and technical staff are assessing the full extent of the engine damage caused by the bird strike to prevent any further operational risks.
The airline also emphasized that bird strikes are a known aviation hazard, particularly during takeoff and landing near airports, and that measures such as bird detection systems and runway wildlife management are continuously implemented to reduce such incidents.
Passenger Impact
While no injuries were reported, the cancellation caused temporary inconvenience to travelers. Air India staff assisted passengers in rebooking, providing guidance and updates. Passengers expressed relief that the flight landed safely despite the unexpected bird strike.
Aviation Safety Context
Bird strikes are a common aviation concern globally. Airlines routinely train pilots to handle such events, and airports employ various measures to minimize bird activity near runways. This incident highlights the importance of rigorous safety protocols and timely inspections following any unexpected impact.
Conclusion
Air India’s quick response ensured passenger safety and minimized disruption. The airline’s handling of the incident demonstrates its commitment to operational safety and effective crisis management. The affected aircraft will remain grounded until full repairs are completed, ensuring that future operations are not compromised.