A Spanish Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon suffered a high-speed birdstrike during a dramatic moment at the AIRE 25 airshow.
The incident occurred during a high-speed solo display Sunday June 15, 2025 at the air base near Zaragoza, where the AIRE 25 airshow was drawing thousands of spectators and showcasing Spain’s military aviation capabilities. The Eurofighter, a front-line multi-role combat aircraft, was flying at high speed when it collided with a large bird — believed to be a stork or similar-sized species — at low altitude.
The impact breached the aircraft’s transparent canopy, sending debris and bird remains into the cockpit. Despite the violent collision and being struck by fragments, the pilot remained conscious and in control of the aircraft.
Eyewitnesses on the ground reported hearing a loud crack followed by a sudden break in the display sequence. The jet climbed sharply and then leveled off before making a cautious approach back to the base.
Emergency crews were on standby as the aircraft touched down safely just minutes later. Spanish Air Force officials confirmed the pilot was taken to a nearby medical facility for evaluation and sustained only minor injuries, mostly due to flying debris from the shattered canopy.
The Eurofighter Typhoon was visibly damaged, with the forward canopy completely fractured and bird remains embedded around the cockpit frame. However, the airframe remained intact, and there was no fire or loss of major systems.
Military aviation experts lauded the pilot’s skill and composure under pressure, noting that a high-speed birdstrike directly to the canopy is among the most dangerous scenarios a fighter pilot can face during peacetime operations.
An investigation into the incident has been launched by the Spanish Air Force, focusing on bird activity in the airspace and whether any pre-show mitigation measures had been implemented.
Despite the dramatic event, the airshow continued after a brief pause. The AIRE 25 airshow marks the 25th anniversary of Spain’s annual air display event, drawing military and civilian aircraft from across Europe and showcasing Spain’s commitment to modern air defense capabilities.
