Probable cause
The in-flight collision with a flock of birds during climb.
NTSB analysis
The regional jet collided with a flock of large birds shortly after takeoff as it climbed through 5,000 feet mean sea level. The flight crew reported that, although there were no observed flight control or engine anomalies, they elected to return to the departure airport and the captain subsequently completed an uneventful visual approach and landing. A postaccident examination of the airframe revealed substantial damage to the radar dome and its underlying structural components. The forward pressure bulkhead web contained a dent and puncture. The left engine compressor section exhibited damage that was consistent with a bird strike.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA072 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 15, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Nearest airport
- Minneapolis-St. Paul Intl (KMSP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Embraer ERJ 170-200 LR
- N-number
- N604CZ
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 121 (airline)
Other records under this N-number
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.