An American Airlines Boeing 737-800 operating Flight 1760 from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to Charlotte, North Carolina, returned to Myrtle Beach International Airport on Monday, August 10, after flames erupted from its left engine shortly after takeoff. The aircraft, carrying 172 passengers and crew, landed safely with no reported injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the plane struck birds during departure. The aircraft was subsequently taken out of service for inspections, and passengers were transferred to another flight to complete their journey.
Pilot reports engine issue, declares mayday
Air traffic control recordings obtained by multiple outlets captured the pilot declaring a mayday call, stating: “Mayday, mayday, mayday. We’ve got an engine problem here.” A passenger video, reviewed by news organizations, appeared to show flames shooting from the engine. Another voice in the recording described the engine as “backfiring like crazy” and suggested it was on fire.
American Airlines issued a statement confirming the aircraft returned safely and that maintenance teams were inspecting the plane. The airline noted there was no indication of an internal fire and attributed the visible flames to the bird strike. The FAA announced it would investigate the incident.
Runway inspection reveals bird remains
The FAA reported that a significant number of birds were found on the runway and were being removed. Officials did not specify the species involved.
Historical context of bird strikes in aviation
Animal strikes, particularly involving birds, are a recurring challenge in aviation. The FAA reports nearly 8,300 animal strikes so far this year, with birds accounting for approximately 97% of incidents. One of the most notable cases occurred in January 2009, when a US Airways flight struck geese shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport, leading to a forced water landing on the Hudson River. All 155 people on board survived.
Safety protocols and pilot response
Pilot Capt. Laura Einsetler, speaking to CBS News, emphasized the seriousness of bird strikes, stating that pilots would not continue flying if an engine showed signs of significant damage. She noted that visual confirmation of flames or erratic engine behavior would typically prompt an immediate return to the airport.
American Airlines confirmed that the aircraft involved in Monday’s incident was removed from service pending further inspection. The airline did not disclose the duration of the aircraft’s grounding or whether additional safety measures were implemented following the event.