Expert: Paul Ruderham - 1/19/2009

Question
Paul,I think you should re-consider you answer to the question "How dangerous are birds to jet engines?" in light of recent events. I believe the questioner had made some good points. The issue of airflow restriction might be solved by good engineering.

Answer
Hi Robert,

This was a very unusual case as the strike was by a very large flock of geese according to the captain.

Small strikes will not affect the aircraft seriously even in the engines, as I stated they are designed to deal with this, so I won't change the answer to the original question.

Admittedly this was a rarity and almost unheard of, but we still have to see the official report of the circumstances and events leading up to the strike.

The captain showed immense skill and awareness and saved all on board.
I await the ntsb report with interest.

Regards
Paul