Bird strike incident involving Boeing 737-800 at EPMO

Casualties unknown • EPMO, PL

A ground controller discovered traces of dried blood on the nose of a Boeing 737-800 following its arrival at EPMO, indicating a likely bird strike during takeoff.

What happened

On October 4, 2016, a Boeing 737-800 was involved in a bird strike incident at the EPMO aerodrome. After the aircraft had completed taxiing to its parking stand, the ground controller observed traces of dried blood on the nose of the aircraft, specifically in the area surrounding the pressure sensor.

Because the flight crew did not report any bird strike to Air Traffic Control during the approach or landing phases of the flight, it is inferred that the strike likely occurred during the takeoff roll.

The investigation

The investigation was conducted by the airport management. The investigators examined the aircraft's exterior and noted the presence of biological residue on the nose section. The investigation focused on the timing of the event relative to the crew's communications with the controller.

Probable cause

The presence of birds on the aircraft's takeoff path.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-10-04 BOEING, 737-800 accident near EPMO, PL?

A ground controller discovered traces of dried blood on the nose of a Boeing 737-800 following its arrival at EPMO, indicating a likely bird strike during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-10-04 involved a BOEING, 737-800, at EPMO, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The presence of birds on the aircraft's takeoff path.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2016-2630/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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