FedEx cargo plane suffers midair engine fire after bird strike, prompting emergency landing at Newark Airport

On the morning of March 1, 2025, a FedEx cargo plane departing from Newark Liberty International Airport experienced a critical in-flight emergency. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft collided with a bird, leading to a fire in one of its engines. This incident necessitated an immediate return and emergency landing at the airport. Eyewitnesses reported hearing explosion-like sounds and observed flames emanating from the plane's engine as it circled back to the runway.

The Boeing 767-3S2F, en route to Indianapolis, was airborne for approximately nine minutes before safely landing back at Newark around 8:00 AM EST. The three crew members on board managed to evacuate without injury. The quick and professional response of the pilots was instrumental in ensuring a safe outcome. Air traffic at Newark Airport was briefly halted during the emergency but resumed shortly after the aircraft landed.

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Bird strikes: An increasing concern in aviation

Bird strikes pose significant risks to aviation safety, with incidents on the rise in recent years. In 2023 alone, over 19,000 such events were reported at U.S. airports, underscoring the need for effective wildlife management around airfields. These collisions can lead to substantial aircraft damage and, in rare cases, catastrophic outcomes.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact sequence of events and assess potential preventive measures. FedEx commended the crew's swift actions, emphasizing their commitment to safety and adherence to emergency protocols.

Recent aviation incidents highlight safety concerns

This event adds to a series of recent aviation incidents that have raised public concern. For instance, an American Airlines flight recently collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in 67 fatalities. Additionally, a Delta plane crash-landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport, injuring at least 18 people. These occurrences have prompted discussions about enhancing safety measures and protocols within the aviation industry.

The aviation community continues to prioritize safety, investing in technologies and training to mitigate risks associated with bird strikes and other in-flight emergencies. Passengers and cargo operators alike rely on stringent safety standards to maintain trust in air travel. As investigations proceed, findings will likely contribute to improved practices and policies aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.