In a remarkable and unexpected turn of events, Ariel Valiente, a squadron leader, found himself in a hair-raising situation while piloting an airplane over Vinces, Los Rios Province.

Little did he know that his tranquil flight would take a terrifying twist when a bird crashed through the aircraft's windscreen, creating a scene that would capture the attention of people worldwide.

Pilot safely lands his plane after a huge bird struck his windshield in the Los Ríos Province, Ecuador. Ariel Valiente was not injured during the incident. pic.twitter.com/Rl3Esonmtp

— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) June 15, 2023

Soldiering Through the Feathered Incident

Valiente, in courage and disbelief, decided to share his extraordinary experience with the world, leading to his video going viral on various social media platforms.

According to a recent report by HNGN, an enormous bird forcefully shattered the windscreen of Valiente's aircraft, leaving the bewildered pilot in a shocking state.

The viral footage portrayed the bird suspended above the squadron leader, its presence leaving Ariel's face and uniform drenched in blood.

While most people would find such an incident highly traumatic, provoking intense panic and fear, Valiente showcased remarkable composure that defied expectations. Astoundingly, the video footage showcased him expertly piloting the aircraft, maintaining a state of calmness despite the lifeless bird in his presence.

In the face of the chaos resulting from the bird strike, Valiente skillfully upheld stability, prioritizing the safety of both the aircraft and its occupants. Presently, aviation authorities are still in the process of verifying the altitude at which the airplane was flying during the incident, as well as the specific route Valiente was following.

This incident brings to mind a similar occurrence that took place back in April when an American Airlines flight en route to Phoenix encountered a bird strike. In this particular case, the impact of the bird strike affected the engine of the American Airlines aircraft, resulting in flames emanating from the No.2 engine.

Fortunately, the skilled pilots managed to land the passenger plane safely, averting a potential disaster. The aircraft is now undergoing repairs to restore its full operational capacity.

The recent bird airplane strikes serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of aviation and the importance of pilot preparedness and skill.

While these incidents may instill fear in the hearts of many, the calm and the composed reaction of pilots like Ariel Valiente is a testament to their unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of their passengers and crew members.

Read Also: TikTok Star's 'Worst Flight' of Her Life on Emirates Goes Viral; Airline Company Responds

Dangers of Bird Strikes

Bird strikes in aviation are dangerous due to several reasons. When birds collide with aircraft, they can cause significant damage to vital components such as the windshield, wings, and engines.

Engine failure is a serious consequence of bird strikes, as birds can disrupt airflow and damage turbine blades. Reduced visibility can occur if birds strike the windshield, which impairs the pilot's ability to navigate.

In severe cases, bird strikes can lead to losing aircraft control and increase the crash risk. Passenger and crew safety is also at stake, as bird strikes can cause injuries and accidents within the cabin.

Repairing damages caused by bird strikes can be costly for airlines, including repairs, inspections, and delays. Additionally, bird strikes highlight the importance of wildlife conservation efforts to balance aviation safety and protecting bird populations.

Related Article: Call of Duty Boycott Drama [TIMELINE]: Content Creators Face LGBTQ+ Backlash