Panic In The Skies: Powerful Bird Forces Uganda Airlines To Make Emergency Landing

By Swift Reporter

Passengers aboard a Uganda Airlines flight from Johannesburg to Entebbe are safe and sound following a dramatic mid-air incident that forced the aircraft to return to South Africa shortly after take-off.

In an official statement released Friday morning, Uganda Airlines confirmed that Flight UR—departing O.R. Tambo International Airport en route to Entebbe International Airport—experienced a technical disruption approximately 45 minutes into the journey.

The airline attributed the incident to a suspected bird strike that resulted in a shattered cockpit windscreen. Acting swiftly, the flight crew made the critical decision to turn back, safely landing the aircraft in Johannesburg without any injuries reported among passengers or crew.

“The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our highest priority,” the airline said, reassuring the public that all onboard were unharmed.

Passengers have since praised the professionalism and composure of the flight crew, particularly the captain, Tonny Tebajanga, whose calm handling of the situation has been widely credited for the safe outcome.

Among those onboard was Simon Kaheru, Chairman of the National Strategic Communication Committee (NSCC), who took to social media to recount the tense moments.

“Grateful to God and the calm competency and professionalism of Capt. Tonny Tebajanga. In a freak incident mid-air shortly after we left Johannesburg, one half of the windscreen shattered. He quietly and steadily handled the situation and flew us back safely,” Kaheru posted.

He also commended the cabin crew for maintaining composure and adhering to emergency protocols throughout the ordeal, despite the evident tension onboard.

The aircraft involved—a 9-year-old Airbus A320-200 leased from Lithuanian carrier DAT—has been part of Uganda Airlines’ operational fleet supporting its regional routes. The national carrier currently operates a growing fleet that includes CRJ900LRs and Airbus A330-800Ns.

While the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation, aviation experts note that bird strikes, though rare, can pose serious risks, particularly when they affect critical components like cockpit windscreens.

This incident marks the most significant in-flight emergency for Uganda Airlines since its revival in 2019. However, the successful handling of the situation underscores the airline’s commitment to safety and the high level of training of its crew.

Flights between Uganda and South Africa continue to operate daily, with the airline expected to provide further updates as investigations into the incident progress.