An American Airlines Boeing 737 struck birds shortly after taking off from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, causing flames to shoot from one of its engines and prompting the pilot to declare a mayday.

The aircraft was carrying 181 passengers when the bird strike occurred during takeoff. Dramatic footage showed flames emerging from the engine moments after the plane hit the birds, raising concerns about a possible engine failure.

The pilot quickly turned the aircraft around and headed back towards Myrtle Beach International Airport as emergency crews prepared for the aircraft’s return.

<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet” data-media-max-width=”560″><p lang=”en” dir=”ltr”>Flames shoot from an American Airlines jet engine moments after it strikes birds during takeoff from Myrtle Beach, forcing the pilot to declare a mayday.<br><br>The Boeing 737 quickly turns back as crews prepare for an emergency response on the ground.

The Boeing 737 landed safely, and all 181 passengers were reported safe. No major injuries were reported following the incident.

Bird strikes are a known aviation hazard, particularly during takeoff and landing when aircraft operate at lower altitudes. Airports use various measures to reduce the risk, including monitoring bird activity and deploying wildlife-control teams.

The incident is expected to prompt further examination of the aircraft and engine to determine the extent of the damage and establish the circumstances surrounding the bird strike.