A Turkish Airlines flight bound for Istanbul was forced to initiate an emergency return to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake on Saturday morning after experiencing a bird strike shortly after takeoff.
According to Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority Daminda Rambukwella, the aircraft sustained the bird strike after departing from BIA, prompting the crew to declare an emergency and prepare for a precautionary landing.
The flight, which departed at 7:07 a.m., was carrying 253 passengers and 10 crew members.
Before landing, the aircraft began circling over the Negombo Lagoon to burn off excess fuel in accordance with standard aviation safety procedures. Once the fuel load is reduced to a safe level, the aircraft is expected to land back at Bandaranaike International Airport at approximately 10:00 a.m.
Airport and aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation. No injuries have been reported, and further updates are expected following the aircraft's safe landing.
