The worst accidents on commercial flights 0:45
(CNN) --
A Southwest Airlines flight bound for Fort Lauderdale was forced to return to Havana Sunday morning after suffering bird strikes, the airline says.
In a statement to CNN on Sunday, Southwest said the plane suffered bird strikes.
“Southwest Flight #3923 departing Havana, Cuba, for Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Sunday morning reportedly experienced bird strikes in an engine and nose of the aircraft shortly after takeoff,” it said. the notice.
"The pilots returned safely to Havana, where the passengers evacuated the aircraft through slides due to the observation of smoke in the cabin."
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The passengers and crew then took a bus to the terminal and flight arrangements were made to Fort Lauderdale, according to Southwest.
“We commend the prompt and professional actions of our pilots and flight attendants in responding to this event.
We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and have reached out to address their needs and offer support," Southwest said in the statement.
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The Cuban state media Radio Rebelde said that the aircraft "detected failures in one of its engines during the takeoff process," citing the Corporación de Aviación de Cuba SA.
Once the plane was cleared to land back in Havana, the passengers were evacuated and were in "good condition," Radio Rebelde said.
"CACSA indicated that the causes that originated said event are being investigated and stressed that, at this time, the airport facility maintains its regular operations," said Radio Rebelde.
When asked about the reported engine failures, a Southwest spokesperson told CNN that the company "will review the aircraft to assess the damage, but has no additional details to share at this time."
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