A United Airlines flight departing from Chicago O’Hare International Airport was involved in a collision with a coyote during its takeoff roll. The incident occurred on the runway, forcing the crew to abort the takeoff for safety reasons.
The Boeing 737 was carrying passengers to its destination when the animal ran onto the active runway, leading to the unexpected impact. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, but the aircraft sustained minor damage and was taken out of service for inspection.
Airport operations were briefly disrupted as wildlife control teams worked to clear the runway and assess the situation. Chicago O’Hare, like many major airports, has procedures in place to manage wildlife hazards, but occasional incidents still occur. United Airlines issued a statement confirming the event and thanked the flight crew for their swift and professional response. Passengers were rebooked on alternative flights, with the airline apologizing for the inconvenience caused.
Wildlife collisions at airports, while uncommon, underscore the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance runway safety. Experts note that airports invest heavily in wildlife management systems, including fencing, habitat control, and regular patrols to prevent such occurrences. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife hazards and the need for constant vigilance in ensuring passenger safety. Investigations into the event are underway, and additional measures may be implemented to further reduce the risk of wildlife encounters.
