PNG Air flight aborts takeoff at Goroka airport after bird swarm on runway

A PNG Air flight safely aborted its takeoff at Goroka Airport on Monday morning after a large flock of birds crossed the runway, causing the aircraft’s tires to deflate during an emergency stop.

No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:31am involving an ATR 72-600 aircraft. According to airline officials, the flight crew initiated a rejected takeoff during the taxi roll before the aircraft became airborne.

Traveling at approximately 70 knots [around 130 km/h], the Pilot in Command applied maximum braking to avoid hitting the birds. While the maneuver successfully prevented the flock from being sucked into the engines, a scenario that can cause severe engine damage or mid-flight shutdowns, the intense friction resulted in two deflated tires on the aircraft's left main landing gear.

In a statement released Monday afternoon, PNG Air defended the pilot's quick decision, stating the maneuver was executed in strict compliance with PNG Civil Aviation Safety Authority [CASA] procedures.

"The PIC’s decision reflects PNG Air’s commitment to operational discipline and the paramount importance of passenger and crew safety," the airline stated, pointing to their recurrent crew training programs as the reason for the successful outcome.

The aircraft currently remains secured on the Goroka Airport runway under the supervision of airline and airport authorities.

A rescue and maintenance team was deployed in the afternoon to begin recovery operations. PNG Air officials stated they aim to replace the damaged tires and return the aircraft to service by mid-morning on Tuesday, May 26.

The airline apologized for the resulting flight disruptions and inconveniences caused to passengers traveling into and out of Goroka. Further updates are expected as recovery efforts conclude.