What happened
On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Qantas flight QF2971, an Airbus A320-232 registered VH-UVK and operated by Qantas Airways, experienced a significant birdstrike during takeoff from Newman Airport in Western Australia. The aircraft was carrying 93 passengers and 6 crew members on a scheduled service to Perth Airport. As the aircraft reached rotation speed, the flight crew observed a large flock of galahs near the windshield and heard multiple impacts on the airframe.
Shortly after the birdstrike, the crew detected increased vibration and a noticeable change in engine pitch from the number 1 engine compared to the number 2 engine. No alerts were displayed on the electronic centralized aircraft monitor (ECAM), and the crew continued the climb to 6,000 feet. During the climb, the crew noted a reduction in high-pitched noise and vibration when climb thrust was reduced, and at 6,000 feet the engine pitch returned to normal. Suspecting potential engine damage from the birdstrike, the crew decided to return to Newman Airport as a precaution and informed passengers, the operator, and air traffic control of the change in plans.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigated the incident and concluded that the birdstrike caused no significant risk to the aircraft or occupants. The event highlighted the importance of crew vigilance and adherence to standard operating procedures during unexpected events.