Military plane returns to Midway Airport after bird strike during takeoff

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A military plane had to return to Midway International Airport after it struck a bird during takeoff Monday.

The military C-37 twin engine aircraft with U.S. government markings on the fuselage was carrying General Daniel Hokanson, the Illinois National Guard confirmed. The general was in Chicago Monday to meet with business executives about national security and to attend an ROTC event at Chicago State University in the afternoon.

Hokanson is the highest ranking officer in the National Guard and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

READ MORE: Plane hits bird shortly after taking off from O'Hare airport; witnesses report engine fire

"Birds surprisingly are a rising share of mishaps at airports, and we're seeing all the technology we're deploying doesn't seem to be enough to keep these flying creatures away," said Prof. Joe Schwieterman, DePaul University.

Just last month at O'Hare International Airport, a Miami-bound United flight made an emergency landing after hitting a bird moments after takeoff. An engine caught fire but fortunately no one was injured.

At Midway, the C-37 is now being inspected and sources told ABC7 Eyewitness News that Gen. Hokanson will be spending the night in Chicago before trying to leave again in the morning.

No injuries were reported.