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JetBlue Flight Hits Coyote on Takeoff at T.F. Green, Returns Safely for Inspection

The precaution reflected standard practice after suspected wildlife strikes.

Overview

  • JetBlue Flight 1129, which struck a coyote during takeoff Tuesday at Rhode Island’s T. F. Green International Airport, returned to the airport without injuries as passengers reported a loud thud.
  • FlightAware data show the A320 departed around 6:16 a.m., climbed to about 3,700 feet, looped back within roughly 12 to 15 minutes, and landed at 6:40 a.m.
  • Firefighters, police, and EMS met the aircraft on landing, then passengers deplaned so maintenance could inspect the jet, which showed no damage.
  • After the check, the flight left again just after 8:30 a.m. and arrived at JFK at 9:06 a.m., while the runway stayed open and other flights were not affected.
  • Wildlife strikes are a known airport risk, and crews typically return to inspect the landing gear and structure to verify systems are sound before continuing.