An Emirates Airlines flight departing from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi for Dubai experienced a bird strike shortly after taking off. The aircraft left the IGI Airport at approximately 4:25 PM, but within minutes of departure, a bird collided with the front nose section of the plane. Recognizing the potential hazard, the pilot immediately alerted the Delhi airport air traffic control and requested permission to return. Following a brief wait and necessary coordination, the plane was safely brought back and landed at the Delhi airport.
Aircraft details and flight schedule
According to airport sources, Emirates Airlines had deployed a Boeing 777-31H(ER) aircraft for this route. Flight EK517 was scheduled to take off from Delhi on October 17, 2026, at around 4:25 PM and land in Dubai at approximately 6:25 PM. Although the flight departed according to its schedule, it encountered the bird strike moments later. Given the impact on the nose area, the pilot made the prompt decision to bring the aircraft back to Delhi.
Safety of passengers and crew
The pilot immediately informed the Delhi airport ATC and requested an emergency landing. After making the necessary arrangements on the runway, the aircraft was landed safely. Subsequently, the airline's engineering team began a detailed inspection of the plane, while passengers were disembarked and brought back to the terminal. Initial checks revealed that the nose of the plane was damaged, leading to the decision to ground the aircraft for a thorough examination. All passengers and crew members aboard the flight were confirmed safe.
Alternative travel arrangements
Airline sources stated that arrangements were made to transport the affected passengers to Dubai on a later flight scheduled around 6:25 PM. This alternative flight was expected to reach Dubai at approximately 8:28 PM as passengers awaited updates at the terminal.
