FedEx Plane Lands With Engine on Fire at Newark Airport After Bird Strike
A FedEx cargo plane made an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport on Saturday after one of its engines caught fire following a bird strike during takeoff.
The plane, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11, had just taken off from Newark en route to Memphis, Tennessee when it struck a flock of birds, causing significant damage to one of its engines. The pilot immediately declared an emergency and turned the plane around to make an emergency landing back at Newark.
As the plane made its descent, witnesses on the ground could see flames and smoke coming from the engine. Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene to prepare for the plane’s arrival.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, the pilot was able to safely land the plane without further incident. The crew and all 13 passengers on board were evacuated from the aircraft and no injuries were reported.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now investigating the incident to determine the cause of the bird strike and subsequent engine fire. Bird strikes are a common occurrence in aviation, with thousands of incidents reported each year. Airports and airlines have measures in place to try and prevent bird strikes, such as using bird deterrents and conducting regular inspections of runways.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that birds can pose to aircraft, and the importance of having well-trained pilots who can handle emergencies with calm and professionalism. The crew of the FedEx plane should be commended for their quick thinking and skill in safely landing the aircraft despite the engine fire.
FedEx has issued a statement expressing gratitude for the safe landing of the plane and thanking the crew for their professionalism. The company is working closely with the FAA to investigate the incident and ensure that all necessary safety measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Overall, the incident at Newark Airport serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that come with flying, and the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Thankfully, this situation had a positive outcome thanks to the quick thinking and skill of the pilot and crew.