A FedEx cargo plane was forced to make an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport on Saturday morning, March 1, 2025, after suffering engine failure caused by a bird strike shortly after takeoff. The incident unfolded just after 8:00 AM when FedEx Flight 3609, which had just departed for Indianapolis, encountered significant issues with one of its engines.
According to FedEx representatives, the Boeing 767-3S2F experienced immediate complications when it struck a bird during its ascent. "Our crew declared an emergency and returned safely to Newark. We are thankful for the quick actions of our crew and first responders," stated FedEx spokesperson Austin Kemker. This statement reflects the airline's relief at the safe resolution of the emergency.
The quick thinking by the flight crew allowed them to make the emergency landing back at Newark, only nine minutes after takeoff. Eyewitnesses reported flames shooting from the right engine of the aircraft, alarming onlookers at the airport. One witness, Sofiane Zeblah, described the moment she saw the plane on fire: "I was driving and saw something falling and then fire start on the right wing engine. I believe a bird went through the engine, a big bird. I was in shock. I stopped immediately on the turnpike. Thankfully nothing happened.”
The bird strike reportedly caused significant damage, and the aircraft was disabled upon landing. Video footage shared on social media depicted dramatic scenes, including fire shooting out from the engine as the plane approached the runway. Emergency responders were quick to attend to the aircraft as soon as it touched down at around 8:07 AM.
No injuries were reported among the three crew members aboard, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey confirmed later statements indicating the aircraft was being evaluated following its emergency return. Operations at Newark Airport were temporarily halted, but resumed shortly afterward as there was no additional threat posed by the situation.
This incident is particularly noteworthy considering the rising concerns about aviation safety due to similar incidents reported recently. There has been renewed scrutiny after multiple aircraft have faced dangerous situations, including another occurrence involving Delta Air Lines earlier this year when their Boeing 757 experienced engine fire during takeoff, leading to emergency evacuations.
Statistics show wildlife strikes are not uncommon, occurring over 19,000 times annually in the U.S., according to the FAA. These types of incidents typically see minor consequences, with about 4% resulting in damage serious enough to require investigation.
While routine, events like the FedEx emergency landing serve as reminders of the potential risks associated with flying and the need for vigilant measures to safeguard aircraft during their takeoff and landing phases. The aviation industry continues to implement strategies to mitigate such risks, including habitat management around airports to reduce bird populations near flight paths.
Overall, this incident highlighted the efficiency of airline protocols and emergency readiness, reaffirming the importance of crew training and quick-thinking during crises. Passengers and crew members alike rely on these measures to maintain safety, especially when faced with unexpected challenges.
Given FedEx's stature as the world's largest cargo airline, it remains committed to ensuring the safety of its flights. With more than 375 destinations across 220 countries, FedEx operates daily services which are integral to global supply chains.
At this time, the FAA has stated it will be investigating the incident to determine the specific nature of the bird strike and any subsequent impacts on aviation safety protocols. The circumstances surrounding this flight will likely inform future policies aimed at protecting aircraft from wildlife strikes, ensuring passengers and crew can travel safely.
FedEx Flight 3609's quick return to Newark also serves as a reminder of the airline's operational readiness and commitment to maintaining safety standards. No injuries report from the incident is encouraging news following such dramatic developments.
This incident’s resolution, coupled with timely response from the crew and emergency services, ensured all aboard remained safe during the ordeal. For now, the company and relevant authorities are assessing the impact of this event and taking necessary steps to prevent similar occurrences.