During a bird strike, what is the recommended action if the strike occurs on the centerline?

• A. Down centerline, suspect engine damage, consider PEL
• B. Fly off centerline to inspect wings
• C. Abort and land in the opposite direction
• D. Circle and wait for conditions to improve

Answer: (A)

When a bird strike on the centerline is suspected, the priority is to keep the aircraft under control and be prepared for possible engine damage. Staying on the centerline helps you keep the airplane flying straight, minimizes yaw from any potential damage, and allows you to monitor engine indications without the added challenge of an off-centerline flight path. If engine damage is suspected, you should plan for a precautionary emergency landing (PEL) as soon as a suitable landing area is available. Other options would unnecessarily complicate control or waste valuable altitude: veering off the centerline introduces asymmetric thrust and unstable handling; attempting to inspect the wings in flight isn’t feasible or safe; circling to wait or aborting in the opposite direction reduces time and available landing options and increases risk.