Short Final

Editorial Staff

Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A pilot reported a bird strike immediately after takeoff, requesting a runway check for bird debris.
When the tower controller asked if it was a "small bird," the pilot responded with the witty retort, "It is now."
The exchange humorously highlights a pilot's quick wit in reporting an aviation incident.

See a mistake? Contact us.

I had the following exchange with a tower controller immediately after takeoff.

Me: Tower, I’d like to report a bird strike during takeoff. I don’t believe there’s any damage to the aircraft, but you’ll need to have someone check for any bird parts on the runway.

Tower: Was it a small bird?

Me: It is now.

Bernie Hirsch