SriLankan Airlines flight returns to Katunayake after bird strike

SriLankan Airlines flight UL-503 aborted its departure from Bandaranaike International Airport at Katunayake on Tuesday following a bird strike during the takeoff sequence. The aircraft, an Airbus A330 bound for London, was forced to execute a rejected takeoff (RTO) and returned safely to the airport.

The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft began its takeoff roll. Ground and flight crew responded to the emergency procedures, and the pilot successfully brought the aircraft back to the runway at Katunayake without further incident.

Bird strikes remain a significant aviation safety concern at airports across the region. Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lanka's main international aviation hub, has implemented various wildlife management protocols to mitigate such incidents. The airport authority works continuously with airline operators to minimize risks posed by bird activity in the vicinity of runways.

The aircraft and its passengers were assessed following the return to Katunayake. SriLankan Airlines was expected to arrange alternative transport or reschedule affected passengers on subsequent services to London. The incident is subject to standard aviation safety investigation procedures.