Incident Overview
The flight crew reported that during initial climb, approximately 200 feet above ground level, they heard a loud bang and the airplane experienced yawing to the left and right. Cockpit instruments indicated a loss of right engine power, and a substantial fuel leak was observed on the left side of the aircraft.
Emergency Response
The pilots declared an emergency and received radar vectors to Midway Airport in Chicago, Illinois. They subsequently landed without further incident.
Cause
The pilots stated that they struck a flock of geese during the initial climb, which is believed to have caused the subsequent mechanical issues.
Weather Conditions
At the time of departure, weather was reported as 200-foot overcast ceiling, 1/2 mile visibility in fog, with temperature and dew point both at 36 degrees Fahrenheit.