JetBlue plane hits coyote during takeoff at T.F. Green

WARWICK, R.I. — A JetBlue flight bound for JFK was forced to turn around shortly after takeoff from after striking a coyote on the runway, according to reports.

The incident happened early Tuesday morning at Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport, when Flight 1129 made contact with the animal while accelerating for departure. 

Loud impact heard during takeoff

Passengers on board said they heard a sudden loud noise as the plane lifted off.

The pilot later informed passengers that the plane had struck a coyote, something some initially thought was a joke due to how unusual it sounded. 

Flight returns as precaution

The aircraft, an Airbus A320 operated by JetBlue Airways, continued flying for several minutes before the crew made the decision to return to Rhode Island.

The plane reached an altitude of about 3,700 feet before turning back and landing safely at the airport roughly 15 minutes after takeoff. 

Emergency crews met the aircraft on the runway, and passengers were temporarily taken off the plane while it was inspected.

No injuries or damage reported

Officials said there were no reported injuries, and a full inspection found no damage to the aircraft.

After the safety check, passengers reboarded and the flight later continued to John F. Kennedy International Airport, arriving later that morning. 

Rare wildlife strike

Wildlife strikes involving aircraft are typically associated with birds, making this type of runway encounter unusual.

Airport operations were not significantly impacted, and officials said the runway remained open following the incident.