A United Airlines flight to Phoenix returned to Chicago’s O’Hare Airport after striking a coyote during takeoff.
The Boeing 737 MAX 9, carrying 167 passengers, landed safely, and no injuries were reported. Passengers were rebooked on another flight.
The FAA is investigating the incident, one of over 800 recorded coyote strikes since 1990. Wildlife poses ongoing risks to aviation, despite management efforts, as animals adapt to urban settings like airports.
The event underscores the importance of improving safety measures.
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