ERJ170 flight crew and a Flight Attendant report on a bird strike during takeoff and the subsequent return for landing.
Synopsis
ERJ170 flight crew and a Flight Attendant report on a bird strike during takeoff and the subsequent return for landing.
Narrative
During rotation; we impacted a hawk; which was flying off the runway. We heard and felt the impact of the bird against the aircraft. Upon a normal climbout we also smelled an acrid smell associated with burned flesh which entered the bleed system. I elected to return to the field; given these circumstances. We requested and were cleared to level off at 3000 FT to maintain our present heading. We configured normally and were straight and level at 3000 FT and approximately 210 KTS. We requested vectors to stay in the traffic pattern; declared an emergency; advised company via ACARS as well as cabin crew and passengers via intercom and pa. We consulted the QRH for an over weight landing and configured for maximum fuel burn. Engine vibrations were normal and there were never any EICAS messages or any abnormal warnings or indications. After completing the climb; descent; approach and landing checklist we landed normally. I took the controls and assumed the pilot-flying role during the base leg. The First Officer assumed pilot monitoring duties. Our approximate landing weight was 78000 LBS. Emergency vehicles were standing by and we reported a normal situation clear of the runway; with no need for emergency vehicles. Coordination with ramp; dispatch maintenance; tower and the Chief Pilots office were normal and timely. Damage to the #1 engine (engine blades as well as internal damage to the stator veins and housing) was noted and being inspected when we left the plane. The event occurred after V1. I think the responses to the event by the crew and all associated facilities (atc; company; maintenance; fire department; dispatch and the Chief Pilots office) were timely; coordinated and efficient.
Second reporter narrative
I was the pilot flying. The captain called V1 and Rotate. While rotating; we both saw a bird raise up from the runway on the front left side of the aircraft. The impact with the bird could be felt from the left side of the aircraft. There was also the noise and smell associated with the impact. We continued the climb out with no loss of performance from the number one engine. Upon reaching a safe altitude; we notified tower that we had a bird strike and would be returning to the airport to land. We completed all necessary checklists and briefed the visual. The Captain then took the airplane and became the flying pilot for the landing. We landing without out incident and notified tower that we were all clear and in no need for emergency assistance.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.