Video: Saudia Boeing 777 hit by flock of birds during takeoff from Algiers

A Saudia Airlines flight suffered a bird strike shortly after takeoff from Algiers on Saturday, but continued safely to its destination with no injuries reported. According to the Aviation Safety Network, Saudia flight SV340, operating a Boeing 777-3FGER (registration HZ-AK31), was departing Algiers-Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) on October 25, 2025, when the aircraft collided with a flock of birds during the approach/climb-out phase.

The impact caused minor damage to the aircraft’s nose cone, but the jet proceeded as scheduled to Jeddah-King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED). No injuries were reported among passengers or crew, and no other casualties occurred on the ground, as per ASN.

An X user, Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler), shared a photo of the damaged aircraft, writing: "This has to be the most shocking bird strike I’ve ever seen! A flock of birds hit Saudia flight SV340, a Boeing 777, during departure from Algiers yesterday."



The aircraft involved, delivered in 2016, is equipped with General Electric GE90-115B engines. Initial reports indicate only minor damage, and the incident is currently based on early information from news and social media sources.

FAQs

What happened to Saudia flight SV340?

Saudia flight SV340 experienced a bird strike shortly after takeoff from Algiers-Houari Boumediene Airport on October 25, 2025. Despite the impact, the aircraft continued its journey to Jeddah and landed safely with no injuries reported.

Which aircraft was involved in the Saudia bird strike?

The aircraft was a Boeing 777-3FGER, registered HZ-AK31, operated by Saudia Airlines.

How badly was the Saudia plane damaged?

The aircraft suffered minor damage, primarily to the nose cone, after colliding with a flock of birds.

Where did the Saudia bird strike incident occur?

The bird strike took place during the aircraft’s departure from Algiers-Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) in Algeria.

Did the Saudia flight return to the airport after the bird strike?

No. The flight continued to its scheduled destination, Jeddah-King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), and landed safely.