In Bridgeton, Mo., an American Airlines plane traveling to Los Angeles had to make an emergency landing at Lambert International Airport, after a bird was sucked into one of the Jet engines. The accident occurred shortly after takeoff around 2:00 pm Wednesday, forcing the MD-80 Jet to make an emergency landing.

Eyewitnesses saw a white bird fly into the engine causing the engine to malfunction and shut down.
The incident is reminiscent of the US Airways jet that struck a flock of birds, ending in a crash in the Hudson River.  But unlike the US Airways flight, the American Airlines’ flight ended with a fairly normal landing, despite the downed engine.

Mel Burkart, professor of Emeritus of Aviation at Saint Louis University said problems with birds are common.  “We encounter birds on a regular basis.  Some birds come out as ashes, larger birds because of their size usually cause internal damage to the engine,” said Burkhart.  Burkart added, “for a passenger yes it’s a big deal, for a pilot just another day on the job.”

The incident is reminiscent of the US Airways jet that struck a flock of birds, ending in a crash in the Hudson River.  Investigators believe that the crash was caused when a Red-Tailed hawk entered the engine.  But unlike the US Airways flight, the American Airlines’ flight ended with a fairly normal landing, despite the downed engine.  While the passengers were shaken from the experience none were injured.  American Airlines quickly rescheduled another flight in less than two hours.

Thanks to www.foxnews.com for above quotes, visit their site for more information.