American Airlines Flight Returns to Myrtle Beach After Striking Birds
An American Airlines Boeing 737 bound for Charlotte experienced an engine issue shortly after taking off from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, when it struck birds. Flames were seen shooting from an engine, prompting the pilot to declare an emergency and…
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, August 11, 2026 —
An American Airlines flight bound for Charlotte, North Carolina, was forced to make an emergency return to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, shortly after takeoff due to an engine issue believed to be caused by striking birds.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737, departed from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) and encountered the bird strike shortly after becoming airborne. Witnesses reported seeing flames emanating from one of the engines.
In response to the developing emergency, the pilot declared an emergency and initiated a return to Myrtle Beach. The flight crew successfully landed the aircraft back at MYR without further incident. There were no reports of injuries to passengers or crew.
Following the landing, the aircraft was taxied to a gate where passengers disembarked. The Boeing 737 is currently undergoing inspection by American Airlines maintenance personnel to assess the extent of the damage to the engine.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been notified and is expected to launch an investigation into the incident. The exact cause and the full extent of the engine damage will be determined during the maintenance inspection and the subsequent FAA investigation.
Story summarized from the original created by Rubén Rosario on wsvn.com, see more information here.
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