On February 6, 1976, a Learjet 24 (registration I-AMME) operated by Estramed was involved in an aviation accident near Bari-Karol Wojtyla (Palese), Italy during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The ingestion of birds into the engine during takeoff caused a loss of power and subsequent loss of altitude. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft sustained significant damage after colliding with birds during its initial climb from Bari-Palese Airport, resulting in a crash in an open field.
What happened
During the departure phase from Bari-Palese Airport, an aircraft was performing its initial climb when it encountered a flock of gulls. The collision resulted in several birds being sucked into the engine, which subsequently led to a loss of power. Following the engine failure, the aircraft was unable to maintain altitude and descended into an open field.
The impact caused extensive damage to the airframe, rendering the plane a total loss. Both members of the flight crew sustained injuries during the accident, though no fatalities were reported.
Findings
Investigations into the incident determined that the primary factor leading to the crash was a bird strike occurring during the climb phase, which caused critical engine malfunction.
Probable cause
The ingestion of birds into the engine during takeoff caused a loss of power and subsequent loss of altitude.