On September 16, 2004, a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-82 (registration N253AA) was involved in an aviation accident near Chicago, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An in-flight collision with a flock of birds during climb out after takeoff, which damaged the left engine fan module and ruptured a fuel line to the fuel-oil cooler causing an engine fire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A domestic air carrier flight encountered a flock of birds shortly after takeoff, resulting in a left engine fire. The crew extinguished the fire and returned for an emergency landing. Investigation identified at least two bird ingestions, with a double-crested cormorant recovered.
Incident Overview
A domestic air carrier flight experienced a bird strike during climb out after takeoff. The flight crew reported noticing the flock of birds too late to avoid them. The first officer, who was pilot flying, stated: "The flock separated and passed on both sides of the aircraft. We felt and heard the impact. The left engine immediately seized and a fire warning ensued." The crew successfully extinguished the engine fire and returned to the departure airport for an emergency landing.
Engine Examination
Examination of the engine revealed that the fan module sustained damage during the event. The module rotated approximately 45 degrees, which pulled the fuel line to the fuel/oil cooler loose. Observed fire damage was in the area of the fuel/oil cooler.
Bird Identification
A bird recovered from the debris path was identified as a double-crested cormorant. It was estimated to weigh 5 pounds intact. Examination of bird debris recovered from the engine confirmed that at least two birds were ingested.
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