Sequence & Resolution
Event Date05/17/2026
Level
Incident
CategoryBird Strike
Flight PhaseClimb
Technical Issue Details
•Boeing 737 MAX 8 (N8723Q) was climbing out of Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica.
•The incident occurred on flight WN1203 bound for William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, USA.
•There were approximately 160-166 passengers on board at the time of departure.
•During the initial climb, the aircraft suffered a bird strike, raising concerns of potential technical damage.
Outcome / Handling
•The flight crew decided to divert to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Costa Rica, as a precaution.
•Airport authorities in Liberia activated the highest emergency protocol (Alerta 3) to prepare for the landing.
•The aircraft landed safely at Liberia Airport at 3:12 p.m. local time.
•No injuries were reported among the passengers and crew members.
•The aircraft sustained minor material damage due to the bird strike.
Current Status
•The occurrence aircraft (N8723Q) was grounded at Liberia Airport for 6 days for technical inspections and maintenance.
•The aircraft was ferried back to Houston (HOU) on flight WN8501 on May 23, 2026.
•The aircraft completed inspections and has since returned to active passenger service.
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Flight Information
Flight NumberWN1203