Air Malta has said that one of its aircraft operating flight KM662 from Malta to Palermo this afternoon suffered a bird strike during take-off at Malta International Airport.

The airline in a statement said that, “the captain rejected the take-off and the aircraft was taken back to its stand. Rejected take-offs are performed to maintain the highest level of safety in such situations.” It added that all passengers are safe and are being taken care of.”

The aircraft, which sustained considerable damage to one engine, is currently being checked by engineers with a view to return it to normal operations as soon as possible.

Air Malta explained that the airline’s flight schedule “looks challenging for today and this weekend, delays are thus expected.”

This is because it makes two aircraft now grounded, following an incident sustained to another aircraft in London Gatwick two days ago, when it was hit by a passenger bridge while parked at the airport.

KM662/3 Malta – Palermo – Malta has been cancelled and customers will be offered full refund or re-routings on other Air Malta flights.

Air Malta customers are advised to check the airline’s Website www.airmalta.com and its facebook page for updated information. Customers can also call the airline’s call centre on +356 2166 2211.

Safety for its customers and crew remains Air Malta’s top priority, the airline said.

Air Malta apologised for this inconvenience due to circumstances beyond its control.

Permalink: Air Malta flight take-off rejected after bird strike, delays expected