An Israeli Air Force helicopter carrying President Isaac Herzog had to make an emergency landing after hitting a flock of birds during take-off. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed the incident. The incident occurred as the presidential helicopter was en route from a memorial event on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem to a mourning service (shiva ceremony) in northern Israel.
According to the Army, the helicopter was hit by birds during the journey and the crew decided to land at Palmachim airbase as a precaution. The IDF reported that the landing was carried out safely and that neither the helicopter was damaged nor anyone on board was injured.
‘There was no loss in this incident’
After touching down, President Herzog and the crew moved to another helicopter and continued their scheduled program without interruption. The army said that the helicopter which had the problem has now been handed over to the Israeli Air Force technicians for inspection and repair so that it can be used again soon.
The IDF said the helicopter carrying the president was hit by a bird while returning from a memorial ceremony on Mount Herzl. Following normal safety rules, the pilots landed the helicopter at Palmachim airbase. “The helicopter was hit by birds and was landed at Palmachim airbase,” the army said. The army confirmed that there was no damage or injuries in the incident.
After taking the helicopter down as a precaution, President Herzog and the flight crew boarded another helicopter to complete their journey. “President Herzog and the crew moved to another helicopter and continued their flight as planned,” the IDF said.