B737-700
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 494; Flight Crew Type 4000
Situational Awareness; Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Inflight Event / Encounter Bird / Animal
Flight Crew Landed As Precaution
Human Factors; Aircraft; Procedure
Shortly after takeoff from ZZZ Runway XXR we impacted a bird while climbing out and turning to the initial departure heading. As the PF (Pilot Flying); I saw a black flash on the left side of the aircraft and felt an impact followed by a flesh burning smell in the flight deck. Additionally the Cabin Crew called and stated they smelled the same smell and felt the impact as well. The Captain directed them to view the number 1 engine for any signs of damage. They noted a large dent on the outer section of the number 1 cowling. We assessed that we indeed experienced a bird strike with engine ingestion and a return to ZZZ was warranted. After assessing the engine readings as normal we elected to continue operating the number 1 engine. I then started coordinating with ATC for our return while the Captain coordinated with Dispatch and the Cabin Crew and briefed the passengers. Additionally he obtained the required landing data and we ran all applicable checklists. The approach and overweight landing were uneventful and we returned to the gate. Upon inspection; our assessment was proven correct with the number 1 engine sustaining significant damage to the cowling and probable ingestion. The Captain made the required write-ups and the aircraft was turned over to Maintenance.
Shortly after takeoff from Runway XXR from ZZZ at approximately 3000 ft AGL; we struck a large bird as we began a turn toward the west on radar vectors. The PF (Pilot Flying) and PM (Pilot Monitoring) knew we had struck a bird but neither of us saw it until the very last second. A burning smell was noted in the cabin and the flight station. There were no abnormal engine indications at that time. Passengers and the Flight Attendant reported some damage to the #1 engine. The Flight Crew requested a downwind for return to ZZZ. All checklists were completed; landing data was run; Dispatch; ATC; and [Operations] were all informed. An uneventful overweight landing was completed at ZZZ.
B737 flight crew reported a bird strike on departure and returning to airport.