Fiji Airways plane undergoes repairs after bird strike near Christchurch

Friday 10 October 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Fri 10 Oct 2025, 11:13am

In this story Civil Aviation Authority

A Fiji Airways flight from Christchurch to Nadi encountered a large flock of birds shortly after takeoff on Thursday. The incident caused a dent in the aircraft's nose and a bloody smear on the engine. After circling Lake Ellesmere to burn fuel, the repaired plane has departed.

How they headlined it

8:45am11:11am

1. Otago Daily TimesFri 10 Oct 2025, 8:45am

   Passenger 'ready for a tequila' after bird strike drama (opens in new tab)

2. StuffFri 10 Oct 2025, 11:11am

   A big dent and a bloody smear: How can a bird cause so much damage to a plane? (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldFri 10 Oct 2025, 11:13am

   Repaired Fiji Airways plane departs Christchurch for Nadi after bird strike emergency (opens in new tab)