Providential escape for airline passengers after bird hit

Kochi, May 8 (UNI) The passengers and crew of Qatar Airways flight QR 264 from Doha had a providential escape when the plane was hit by a bird just before landing at the Nedumbaserry International Airport near here early today.

The plane, with 132 passengers on board, however, landed safely at about 0300 hrs.

The nose of the plane was partially damaged in the incident, Qatar Airways Airport Manager Ashraf said.

Swinging into action, the Qatar Airways authorities here got the damaged portion replaced by a new aircraft nose, brought in by its Colombo flight, which was diverted here in the afternoon.

About 138 passengers who were to depart for Doha by return flight QR-265 at 0500 hrs, were accommodated in various hotels while the damaged plane was repaired. The flight ultimately left for Doha from here at 1840 hrs, delayed by more than 13 hours.

UNI XR ARC SG HT2006