Can a jet engine survive a bird strike?

A jet engine can sometimes survive a bird strike. And sometimes if it hits dozens of birds, or a really big bird, or if the bird gets stuck somewhere unfortunate, then the engine will break and stop producing thrust, or start vibrating, or compressor stall, or catch on fire or explode or whatever.



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If large birds or flocks of birds are reported or observed near the runway, the flight crew should consider: Delaying the takeoff or landing when fuel permits. Advise the tower and wait for airport action before continuing. Take off or land on another runway that is free of bird activity, if available.

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Birds don't fly at night. Birds don't fly in poor visibility, such as in clouds, fog, rain, or snow. Birds can detect airplane landing lights and weather radar and avoid the airplane. Airplane colors and jet engine spinner markings help to repel birds.

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The extra weight of a screen would decrease fuel efficiency. But the main reason is concern that screens would impede airflow into engines, possible causing an engine to shut down. Screens could ice over – airliners typically cruise at altitudes where temperatures are well below zero. Ice would also disrupt airflow.

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Opening an aircraft door is impossible while the plane is at cruising altitude or above 10,000 feet due to air pressure. However, as the plane gets lower, experts say it is possible for a door to open as the pressure outside equalizes with the pressure inside the plane.

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Birds can detect airplane landing lights and weather radar and avoid the airplane. Airplane colors and jet engine spinner markings help to repel birds. Birds seek to avoid airplanes because of aerodynamic and engine noise. Birds dive to avoid an approaching airplane.

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Some aircraft damage from lightning strikes includes broken lighting and windows, deformed antenna placements, and onboard electronics malfunctions. Other abnormalities or warnings on the flight deck, such as cabin air pressurization problems or false alarms, can occur after your airplane has been struck by lightning.

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This shaking is caused by turbulence. While this might make some uneasy, there is nothing to worry about as modern airplanes are designed to withstand all types of turbulence.

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