A close call for both wildlife and passengers unfolded on Monday night 8:30PM IST in Mumbai. Emirates flight EK 508, flying from Dubai, struck a flock of flamingos while on approach to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The pilot managed a safe landing despite the collision. The unfortunate news: at least 40 flamingos were found dead in the surrounding area following the incident.
By Aditya M

Here's a closer look at the story:
- The Incident: Emirates flight EK-508 struck a flock of flamingos while approaching Mumbai airport on Monday evening. The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation.
- Flamingo Deaths: Sadly, at least 40 flamingos were found dead in the vicinity of the airport, likely due to the impact with the aircraft.
- Safe Landing: Despite the bird strike, the pilot skillfully landed the plane, ensuring the safety of all passengers. The extent of damage to the aircraft is yet to be revealed by Emirates.
- Wildlife Concerns: The incident has sparked discussions about safeguarding wildlife habitats near airports. The Thane Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, a vital breeding ground for flamingos, is located close to the airport. Experts are investigating the cause of the collision. Some theories suggest that recent power line installations near the sanctuary might have disoriented the flamingos during their flight path.
Unanswered Questions
The extent of damage to the Emirates aircraft remains unclear. The airline is expected to release a statement soon. Wildlife officials are searching for any additional flamingo casualties.
This incident raises several questions:
- How can we minimize bird strikes near airports?
- What role do habitat disturbances play in such collisions?
- Are there technological advancements that can improve bird detection systems?
Moving Forward: Safety for Skies and Sanctuaries
The Emirates flight incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of coexistence.
Efforts to improve pilot awareness, implement stricter regulations around airport perimeters, and enhance wildlife habitat protection are crucial.
Hopefully, this event will spark productive discussions and lead to improved protocols to safeguard both air travel and the beauty of our natural world.
Add comment
Comments