The helicopter struck a duck that went through the pilot's windscreen

This recording captures a high-intensity emergency involving a police helicopter operating in the vicinity of "Spear Tower" (Stinson Municipal Airport in San Antonio, Texas). The flight begins routinely as the pilot coordinates movements between runways and inquires about a nearby storm cell. The situation shifts instantly when the pilot reports a bird strike and requests an immediate return to their base, the "police pad."

The severity of the incident becomes clear when the pilot informs the controller, "we have no more windscreen." In aviation, a bird strike that penetrates the cockpit is a critical emergency. The sudden influx of high-speed air (the "wind blast") creates extreme noise, makes communication difficult, and can physically hamper the pilot's ability to see or move. In this case, the bird—later identified in reports as a duck—actually struck the pilot, causing a bloody nose and facial trauma.

The technical handling of the emergency by both parties is exemplary. The controller immediately grants the pilot "discretion" to fly any path necessary and issues a "no need to respond" instruction. This is a standard but vital procedure during emergencies to reduce the pilot's cognitive workload, allowing them to focus entirely on flying the aircraft (Aviate, Navigate, Communicate).

The incident highlights the persistent danger of bird strikes, particularly for helicopters which frequently operate at lower altitudes where bird density is highest. While many bird strikes result only in minor airframe dents, a "penetration" event like this poses a direct threat to the crew's life. The pilot's ability to remain calm and communicate clearly while bleeding and facing a 60-80 knot wind inside the cockpit demonstrates high professional competence.