An American Airlines aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Havana's José Martí International Airport on Wednesday after a bird collided with the plane during its final approach. According to reports from the state-run newspaper Granma and statements by Transport Minister Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, Flight No. 837, registered as M9227NN, encountered a bird strike on its front landing gear while at an altitude of approximately 300 feet outside the airport's perimeter.
Despite the incident, the crew managed to land the plane safely. However, the aircraft experienced directional control issues upon clearing the runway, prompting the shutdown of the engines and a request for towing assistance. "The airport's emergency team followed established protocols, including the evacuation of passengers," Rodríguez stated in a Facebook post.
A preliminary inspection indicated damage to a hydraulic line within the front gear control system due to the bird impact. Cuban authorities are in contact with the airline to address the damage, and it has been reported that passengers are receiving the necessary care.
This incident comes just 14 days after a Viva Aerobus flight from Miami to Mérida was redirected to Havana for an emergency landing due to an engine failure, causing distress among passengers. The Mexican newspaper Por Esto reported that the situation was handled without major repercussions, thanks to the skillful actions of pilot Roger Alonso Castillo Rivas from Ciudad del Carmen, who was praised on social media for ensuring the safety of all 215 people on board.
On the social media platform X, the Mexican Consulate in Havana confirmed that Viva Aerobus Flight 755, which was traveling from Miami to Mérida, made a successful emergency landing at José Martí International Airport.
Questions About Recent Emergency Landings in Havana
What caused the American Airlines plane to make an emergency landing in Havana?
The emergency landing was caused by a bird strike on the aircraft's front landing gear during its final approach to José Martí International Airport.
How did the crew handle the situation after the bird strike?
The crew safely landed the plane despite the impact, but had to shut down the engines and request towing assistance due to directional control issues.
How are authorities addressing the damage caused by the bird strike?
Cuban authorities are collaborating with American Airlines to resolve the hydraulic line damage, and passengers are being cared for.
Was there a similar incident involving another airline recently?
Yes, just 14 days earlier, a Viva Aerobus flight had to make an emergency landing in Havana due to an engine failure.