Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s flight to New York hit by bird strike and forced to divert

The airline confirmed the EI107 operating from Dublin to New York’s JFK airport sustained the strike a few moments after take-off and was able to safely return to Dublin.

It said it would operate the flight later this evening with a replacement aircraft.

“Aer Lingus flight EI107 operating from Dublin to New York JFK this afternoon was required to turn back when the aircraft experienced a bird strike shortly after take-off.

"The aircraft landed safely at Dublin Airport and all customers and crew safely disembarked.

"We plan to operate the flight later this evening on a replacement aircraft. We apologise to customers impacted for the inconvenience," a spokesperson said.

Mr Martin and his delegation were on their way to meet US President Joe Biden at a UN General Assembly.

The flight took off at 5.18pm this evening and safely landed back at Dublin Airport.

Mr Martin is due in New York tomorrow where he will address the UN General Assembly.

The last time Mr Martin travelled to the US to meet Mr Biden in the White House, Mr Martin tested positive for Covid-19 and the meeting had to be held virtually.