Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Time Pressure; Workload
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Inflight Event / Encounter Bird / Animal
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport
Airport; Environment - Non Weather Related
Shortly after takeoff we received a bird strike in our Number 1 Engine that caused considerable damage. Based on the engine vibration as well as the unusual noises coming from the aircraft; we determined it was necessary to immediately return for landing at ZZZ. I received priority with air traffic control and the First Officer continued flying the aircraft. There were no ECAM actions or QRH follow ups. Although there were high vibration indications as well as some initial fluctuations with N1; N2 and EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature); the engine parameters remained in the realm of normal. Therefore; the First Officer and myself did not see any reason for shutting the engine down in flight. We landed safely; let the airport personnel do a quick inspection of the aircraft on the taxiway and then returned to the gate.It all went fairly well. There was a startle factor with this event. But; in general we followed everything we learned in training. However; I may have delegated the re-configuring of the aircraft to the First Officer a bit too soon. He did that on his own. It was all done correctly. But; I don't remember doing the normal acceleration altitude call outs. I did all the standard communication procedures to ATC; cabin crew; passengers and Dispatch. Then; rejoined the First Officer for the approach preparation. The First Officer handled flying the aircraft as well as his communication with ATC perfectly.There is nothing that I can suggest that would prevent this from happening again. We always have to contend with the hazards associated with migratory waterfowl. Always consider that as a threat during that time of the year as well as keep a vigilant lookout.
During takeoff approximately 700-800 feet we struck birds. We returned to ZZZ.Do not allow birds near airports.
Air carrier flight crew reported bird strike after takeoff resulting in a return to the departure airport.