Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 113; Flight Crew Type 1898
Inflight Event / Encounter Bird / Animal
Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Environment - Non Weather Related
At 800 AGL climbing out of GEG off of RWY 3 we experienced multiple bird strikes to the Captain's windshield and right wing inboard slat. The RVR for RWY 3 GEG was 800RVR so we decided to proceed to our takeoff alternate; where the weather was VFR. Although CATIII was available to RWY 3 in GEG we decided the safe course of action was to divert to a VFR airport that also happened to have company maintenance. The flight was completed safely without further incident.
Hit multiple geese in climb-out after takeoff at approximately 800 feet AGL. Loud impact on aircraft nose and right wing. We assessed the situation and determined that a diversion to our takeoff alternate was the safest and most prudent course of action. Takeoff at GEG was with 800 RVR. Return to GEG would require a CAT 3. We felt [a CAT 3] with possible aircraft damage was not the safest option. We contacted dispatch and decided to divert to [our takeoff alternate]. Passengers were notified of our situation and that we were diverting. Divert was uneventful. A detailed inspection was performed by Maintenance. No major damage occurred and we were able to get our passengers to [our original destination] a few hours later. First Officer was outstanding in his support and professionalism during this event. My flight attendants kept our passengers safe and secure and also did an outstanding job. Thank you.
Air Carrier flight crew reported multiple bird strikes on departure led to a diversion.