Turkish Airlines flight TK713's damaged engine after a bird strike. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, May 20, 2025 (BSS) - An Istanbul-bound Turkish Airlines flight carrying 280 passengers made an emergency landing shortly after takeoff from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) this morning following a bird strike.

"Turkish Airlines flight TK713 departed from HSIA at 7:09 am. Shortly after takeoff, smoke was observed due to a bird strike on the aircraft's right engine. As a precautionary measure, the pilot conducted an emergency landing and safely brought the aircraft back to Dhaka at 8:01 am," said HSIA Executive Director Group Captain S M Ragib Samad while speaking to media.

All 280 passengers on board remained safe and unharmed, he confirmed.

The affected passengers have been accommodated in nearby hotels and necessary arrangements have been made to transport them to their respective destinations via an alternative flight, he added.

Meanwhile, in a press statement, the Turkish Airlines Dhaka office said the aircraft was forced to return to HSIA shortly after a successful takeoff due to an unexpected bird strike on engine number two.

"We are pleased to confirm that all passengers, crew members and the aircraft are safe," the airline said in its statement.

It further mentioned that repairs on the aircraft are underway and will require some time, adding, "All our valued passengers have been accommodated at nearby hotels for their comfort and rest."