What happened
On 5 December 2004, a Boeing 737-73V, registration G-EZJX, was performing a scheduled passenger flight from Newcastle Airport. During the takeoff roll on Runway 25, the flight crew observed a flock of birds on the runway ahead. As the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 115 kt, the crew heard a loud bang and felt a vibration throughout the airframe, accompanied by a surge in the number one engine.
The commander initiated a rejected takeoff at 122 kt, well before reaching the decision speed (V1) of 127 kt. The aircraft came to a halt with 1,067 metres of runway remaining. Following the stop, the crew alerted the Airport Fire Service, who reported smoke emanating from the right main landing gear. For safety, the commander elected to disembark all 96 passengers and 5 crew members on the runway. The aircraft sustained no permanent damage and was later towed to the parking area.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and identified evidence of three separate bird impacts: two occurred on the left engine and one on a left wing slat. The birds were identified as grey partridges.
Regarding airfield management, the investigation noted that three bird patrols had been conducted that morning with no issues reported. However, it was discovered that a shooting party had been active near the northern boundary fence of the airfield the previous day. There had been concerns that beaters were driving birds toward the airfield. Following the incident, the airport operator contacted the adjacent landowner to request that such shooting activities be avoided near the airfield boundaries.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the impact of grey partridges with the aircraft during the takeoff roll.
- The crew had minimal opportunity to detect the birds due to the prevailing light conditions.
- The commander's decision to reject the takeoff was influenced by the physical evidence of engine damage and the observed vibration.
- The aircraft stopped safely with sufficient runway length available.