Uganda Airlines confirmed on Thursday, April 3, 2026, that a flight from Johannesburg, South Africa, to Entebbe experienced a mid-air disruption shortly after take-off due to a bird strike.
The incident, which occurred approximately 45 minutes into the flight, resulted in a shattered windscreen.
The airline said the flight crew promptly decided to return to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, where the aircraft landed safely without any injuries.
“We confirm that all guests and crew are safe,” Uganda Airlines stated in a press release, emphasizing that passenger and staff safety remains their top priority.
Uganda Airlines did not report any flight delays caused by the incident, but passengers on the affected flight are expected to be rebooked on subsequent services.
The airline also assured the public that it is investigating the incident in coordination with aviation authorities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Bird strikes are a known hazard in aviation, occasionally causing damage to aircraft but rarely leading to injuries thanks to modern safety protocols and rigorous crew training.
Aviation experts note that rapid decision-making by pilots, such as returning to the departure airport, is a standard safety measure in such situations.
This marks the latest in Uganda Airlines’ commitment to maintaining high operational safety standards while ensuring minimal disruption to passengers.
The airline continues to operate flights across Africa and beyond, prioritizing secure and reliable travel experiences.
The airline urged travelers to stay updated on flight information through official channels and thanked passengers for their understanding and cooperation.