A United Airlines flight declared an emergency on Sunday after hitting a coyote during takeoff at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, airline officials confirmed.

"During the rotation we hit a pretty big animal and we're suspecting of causing damage the nose and landing gear." The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating. READ MORE | Chicago police ...

It is mating season for coyotes, which "generally means increased activity in urban areas, including Chicago," according to Chicago Animal Care and Control.

Boeing’s last 737 MAX 9 delivery to United Airlines was on December 13, 2024, when the airline welcomed N77585 to its fleet.

The Boeing 737 Max’s front right nose gear was damaged in a collision between the plane and a coyote on the runway. After taking off and climbing to 6,000 feet, the 737 Max looped twice before ...