GOL Boeing 737 returns to Recife after bird strike damages engine

A GOL Linhas Aéreas Boeing 737-800 was forced to return to Recife on Monday, October 5, 2026, after a bird strike damaged its right engine. The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft, registered PR-GXL, departed for São Paulo Guarulhos. Residents near the airport captured footage of sparks and flames erupting from the engine, though GOL later clarified that there was no fire, only sparks from the bird passing through the engine.

The flight, G3 1587, had taken off at 13:16 local time but returned safely to Recife Guararapes International Airport at 13:47. The crew flew several circuits over the city to reduce fuel before landing. Airport operator Aena Brasil confirmed that no emergency was declared, and the airport resumed normal operations by mid-afternoon.

Passengers were assisted under ANAC Resolution 400 and rebooked onto later flights. The aircraft was handed over to maintenance for inspection. This incident follows another engine-related event involving a GOL 737 in Goiânia on September 23, 2026, where flames were seen from an engine during takeoff.