Incident Overview
On 10 January 2017, a Boeing 737-8K5 (registration G-FDZY) operated by an airline as a commercial passenger flight experienced a bird strike during takeoff from Bournemouth Airport. The aircraft, powered by two CFM56-7B27E turbofan engines, had 7 crew and 177 passengers on board.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft was rotated for takeoff, the left engine ingested a bird, later identified as a seagull. The flight crew heard a change in engine sound and noted increased indicated engine vibration, accompanied by light airframe vibration. Takeoff thrust was maintained without exceeding engine limits.
The crew levelled the aircraft at 4,000 ft above mean sea level to assess the situation. They initially requested a return to Bournemouth to hold and informed air traffic control of the bird strike, asking for the runway to be inspected. In level flight, the vibration reduced and the engine operated within allowable parameters.
After liaising with the aircraft operator by radio, the crew decided to divert to London Gatwick Airport, which has a longer runway than Bournemouth. During the holding period, the crew briefed themselves and passengers, burned fuel to reduce landing weight, and consulted the Quick Reference Handbook. The 'High Engine Vibration' checklist was reviewed in anticipation of increased vibration if a go-around was required. As engine vibration worsened with increased power, the crew elected to perform a precautionary overweight landing using flap 15.
Landing performance calculations confirmed it was satisfactory. The crew briefed on flare technique, stopping procedures, and the selection of non-standard flap 1 in the event of a go-around. A PAN call was made, and Gatwick ATC was informed of the intention to vacate the runway and stop for fire service inspection of the engine and brakes.
Landing and Aftermath
The landing was uneventful. After the fire service completed an external check of the aircraft, it taxied to a parking stand with the left engine shut down. Inspection revealed three fan blades were damaged by the bird strike. The engine was subsequently repaired on-wing. No injuries to crew or passengers were reported.