The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into a recent incident involving a British Airways Boeing 777-300ER. On April 26, 2025, the aircraft reportedly encountered a bird strike shortly after departure, followed by fumes detected inside the cabin.
The aircraft, which departed from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) en route to London Heathrow Airport (LHR), diverted safely to Boston LThe aircraft, which departed from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) en route to London Heathrow Airport (LHR), diverted safely to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). No injuries were reported during the incident.
Flight 216: Diversion to Boston After Incident
Operating as Flight 216, the aircraft identified as G-STBD was forced to divert after the crew reported a suspected bird strike and cabin fumes. The Boeing 777-300ER landed safely at Boston Logan around 7:30 p.m. local time.
According to ch-aviation data, the aircraft is approximately 13.5 years old and features a four-class cabin configuration designed to carry 254 passengers:
- 8 in first class
- 76 in business class
- 40 in premium economy
- 130 in economy class
Despite the mid-air disruption, the landing proceeded smoothly. The FAA has confirmed the event and stated that a formal investigation is underway. While the diversion was handled professionally, diversions can often result in missed onward flights. Passengers affected by missed connections can explore their rights regarding missed connection compensation.
Passengers Continue Journey on Airbus A380
Following the diversion, British Airways arranged an onward flight for passengers using an Airbus A380 registered as G-XLEK. According to Flightradar24, the replacement aircraft departed Boston approximately two hours after the Boeing 777’s landing and completed the journey to London in five hours and 51 minutes.
The Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, features a four-class layout accommodating 469 passengers:
- 14 in first class
- 97 in business class
- 55 in premium economy
- 303 in economy class
When passengers are rebooked onto another flight after an operational disruption, airlines must also ensure proper communication and care. Learn more about passenger rights during airline disruptions to understand what services you’re entitled to receive.
British Airways’ Fleet Overview in 2025
As of 2025, British Airways manages one of Europe’s most extensive fleets, totaling around 295 aircraft across its mainline and regional operations, including BA CityFlyer and BA EuroFlyer.
The airline operates a strong narrowbody fleet consisting mainly of Airbus A320 family models, supported by wet-leased Airbus A321s and regional Embraer ERJ190 jets. On the widebody side, British Airways fields a variety of long-haul aircraft, including Boeing 777-200ERs, Boeing 777-300ERs, Airbus A350-1000s, Boeing 787 Dreamliners (787-8, 787-9, 787-10), and the iconic Airbus A380.
Widebody aircraft like the 777 and A380 are primarily used on high-demand transatlantic services and premium long-haul routes, reflecting the carrier’s focus on maximizing network reach and fleet efficiency.
