A Turkish Airlines Airbus A330-300 operating Flight TK731 from Colombo to Istanbul is preparing to return to Bandaranaike International Airport after a reported bird strike shortly after takeoff.

The aircraft remained in a holding pattern off Sri Lanka’s western coast for nearly two hours as part of a safety precaution.

The flight crew followed standard procedures to reduce fuel and ensure the aircraft lands at a safe weight, as the Airbus A330-300 does not have a fuel jettison system.

The aircraft became the world’s most-tracked flight on Flightradar24 as people monitored its movements.

Authorities confirmed the aircraft remains under control, with all passengers and crew safe onboard.

Airport emergency services are standing by to support the precautionary landing.