Why Did a United Airlines Flight Make an Emergency Landing in Chicago After a Coyote Strike on Its Way to Phoenix? New Report Explains What You Need To Know

Thursday, January 16, 2025

A routine United Airlines (UA) flight took an unexpected turn when its Boeing 737 MAX 9 struck a coyote during takeoff from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Bound for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), the aircraft was forced to return to ORD as a precaution. All 167 passengers and six crew members remained unharmed, thanks to the swift action of the flight crew.

This rare incident highlights the complexities and persistent risks wildlife poses to modern aviation. United Airlines ensured minimal disruption by quickly arranging alternative travel plans for affected passengers, reinforcing their commitment to safety and reliability.

Unfolding of the Incident

Flight UA1727 departed from Chicago at around 10:45 AM, but moments into takeoff, the aircraft’s landing gear struck a coyote on the runway. Following standard aviation safety procedures, the pilots returned to ORD for a thorough inspection of the aircraft to rule out potential damage.

Upon safely landing, passengers were transferred to another aircraft to continue their journey to Phoenix. While United Airlines confirmed the event, details regarding the condition of the aircraft or the inspection findings were not disclosed.

Wildlife Strikes: A Persistent Challenge

Wildlife strikes, though typically associated with birds, occasionally involve ground animals such as deer, rabbits, or coyotes, posing a unique set of challenges for airports and airlines. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), over 310,000 wildlife strikes were recorded in the U.S. between 1990 and 2023, with terrestrial animal strikes being less frequent but potentially more damaging.

Coyotes, in particular, are known for their adaptability to urban and suburban landscapes, including airport environments. From 1990 to 2022, they accounted for 824 reported strikes in the U.S., underscoring the need for robust wildlife management strategies.

How Airports Mitigate Wildlife Risks

Airports worldwide employ a variety of measures to reduce the risk of wildlife encounters. These include:

• Habitat modification: Altering the surrounding environment to make it less attractive to animals.
• Wildlife control teams: On-site experts monitor and manage animal activity.
• Technology: Advanced detection systems to identify and address animal presence near runways.

Chicago O’Hare, one of the busiest airports globally, operates a comprehensive wildlife management program aimed at minimizing such risks. However, incidents like the UA1727 coyote strike reveal the ongoing challenges of balancing aviation operations with local ecosystems.

Broader Implications for Aviation Safety

This incident serves as a reminder of the aviation industry’s constant battle against wildlife-related risks. While bird strikes dominate statistics, the threat posed by ground animals requires equal attention. Airports and airlines must continuously evolve their strategies, integrating new technologies and collaborating with wildlife experts to enhance safety protocols.

The Need for Innovation in Wildlife Management

The aviation industry has made significant strides in wildlife strike prevention, yet incidents involving terrestrial animals expose the gaps in current systems. Ongoing research, innovation, and adaptation are crucial to mitigate risks effectively and ensure passenger safety.

Conclusion

The coyote strike involving United Airlines Flight UA1727 demonstrates the unpredictable challenges of operating in wildlife-prone environments. As airports and airlines refine their safety measures, this event underscores the importance of vigilance and innovation in addressing both common and uncommon wildlife threats.

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