Air carrier flight crew reported a bird strike on final approach resulted in hydraulic system damage and loss of steering control. The crew called attention to the bird hazards at MUHA/HAV airport; and suggested trash accumulating along the perimeter fences might be attracting birds to the area.
Synopsis
Air carrier flight crew reported a bird strike on final approach resulted in hydraulic system damage and loss of steering control. The crew called attention to the bird hazards at MUHA/HAV airport; and suggested trash accumulating along the perimeter fences might be attracting birds to the area.
Narrative
On final approach at approximately 300 feet above ground level (AGL); a large bird struck the aircraft; impacting the front landing gear wheel well. Due to the phase of flight; we continued the approach and landed without issue.As the pilot flying; I transferred control to the captain at around 60 knots. However; upon attempting to exit the runway; we realized that directional control via the nose wheel steering had been lost. At that point; we stopped on the runway and requested assistance from air traffic control; asking for ground personnel to help maneuver the aircraft off the runway.After parking; maintenance conducted an inspection and discovered the bird within the wheel well. Several hydraulic lines had been damaged as a result of the impact; and within minutes of shutting down; hydraulic system A had fully depleted.Cause: Proceed with caution and remain vigilant for bird activity in the vicinity of airports; particularly on final approach. In this specific incident; a significant amount of trash was observed near the airport perimeter fences at Havana Airport; leading to frequent presence of large birds in the area.Due to this environmental factor; pilots should anticipate potential bird hazards during arrival and take appropriate precautions to mitigate risks.
Second reporter narrative
On final approach; at approximately 300 feet AGL; we hit a large bird with the nose landing gear. We continued the approach and landed normally. Below 60 knots I took control of the airplane and when I tried steering off the runway's centerline the tiller did not move. At that point I came to a complete stop; and I tried moving the tiller again. It did not move at all. We immediately advised the tower that we had no steering control and contacted operations to be towed in to the ramp. With the towers clearance we shut down both engines; and used the APU. At the ramp; remains of the bird was found in the nose wheel well. It seemed to be a common vulture. After the mechanic removed the bird; he found that two hydraulic lines were pinched. Hydraulic fluid was leaking and spraying out. Hydraulic system A was completely empty; and spilled on the ramp.Cause: Airport staff should be trained and given tools to keep birds away.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.