Today a Delta flight return to the airport after hitting birds. The flight Delta 1053 had just took off from New Orleans when it hit several seagulls. There was some damage, so the pilot decided to make  a precautionary landing. The airplane landed safely. What many people might be surprise to know is that bird strikes happen all the time. There are estimated to be around 4000 bird strikes a year. Most are harmless that will just cause a dent, or two. Maybe, 5% cause larger damage that will require an engine shut down. But, in most of these cases the airplane lands safely. The last fatal airline accident caused by birds happen around four decades ago. I personally had around 5 bird strikes. When ever a bird strike happens, the aircraft must get inspected by a mechanic who must repair any damage & sign the aircraft off as safe to fly again.