Johannesburg, South Africa: Passengers aboard a Uganda Airlines flight from Johannesburg to Entebbe narrowly escaped disaster after a cockpit windscreen shattered mid-air, forcing an emergency return to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
The incident occurred on Friday morning, April 3, 2026, approximately 45 minutes after takeoff, triggering a tense but controlled response by the flight crew.
According to one of the passengers, Mr Simon Kaheru, the frightening incident happened shortly after departure, when one section of the aircraft’s windscreen suddenly gave way.
“In a freak incident mid-air shortly after we left Johannesburg, one half of the windscreen shattered. Captain Tonny Tebajanga quietly and steadily handled the situation and flew us back,” Kaheru said.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Kaheru said the crew maintained composure throughout the ordeal. “The cabin crew were composed, even though slightly shaken at points, as they followed procedures and ensured everyone remained safe,” he added.
Hero Pilot Tebajanga saves lives
The aircraft, under the command of Captain Tonny Tebajanga, made a controlled turnaround and safely landed back in Johannesburg.
Uganda Airlines later confirmed that the incident was caused by a bird strike, which damaged the aircraft’s windscreen.
“The flight experienced a disruption approximately 45 minutes after take-off due to a bird strike… the crew made the decision to return to OR Tambo International Airport, where the aircraft landed safely,” the airline said in a statement, assuring that “all passengers and crew were confirmed safe.”
A shattered cockpit windscreen is a rare but serious aviation incident, often requiring immediate action to maintain cabin pressure and visibility.
The airline also acknowledged earlier delays to the flight, attributed to the temporary closure of Entebbe International Airport.
Uganda Airlines spokesperson Shakira Rahim said a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, preventing departures. “It’s true the flight was delayed…you can’t fly when the airport is closed,” she explained.
Rahim praised the crew’s decision-making, describing the captain’s actions as lifesaving. “The pilot is a hero because everybody is safe,” she said.
Aviation experts note that such situations demand extreme precision and calm decision-making, qualities that passengers say were clearly demonstrated during the flight.
For those onboard, what began as a routine journey quickly turned into a life-threatening scare, but one that ended safely thanks to swift and professional handling by the crew.
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