Bird strike forces Air India flight to make emergency landing at Rajkot airport, all 124 passengers safe

A major aviation mishap was averted at Hirasar International Airport in Gujarat's Rajkot after an Air India flight bound for Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing shortly after take-off after a bird hit, causing damage to the plane's fan blade, officials said.

The aircraft, carrying 124 passengers, suffered a technical malfunction after a bird hit one of its engines moments after departure from the runway, they said.

According to preliminary information, the bird struck the engine fan at high speed, causing significant damage to a fan blade. The impact triggered warnings in the cockpit indicating engine damage and a technical fault.

The pilot promptly assessed the situation and contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) before safely returning the aircraft to Hirasar Airport and executing an emergency landing.

All passengers and crew members were reported safe, officials said.

A preliminary inspection carried out by engineers revealed extensive damage in the engine fan-blade section of the aircraft. 

The aircraft has been grounded for repairs, and a detailed examination is under way, officials added.