Royal Flying Doctor Service plane strikes cow while landing on Nullagine airstrip in Pilbara

A medical plane has hit a cow while landing in the heart of the Pilbara.

The bizarre incident unfolded when a Royal Flying Doctor Service aircraft came into land at the airstrip in Nullagine, about 190km north of Newman, on Tuesday morning.

As the plane descended, it struck the cow, killing it instantly.

The aircraft had a patient aboard, along with a doctor, a nurse and the pilot. No one was hurt.

“An incident occurred early this morning in the Pilbara community of Nullagine when an RFDS aircraft struck a cow while landing at the airstrip,” an RFDS spokesperson said.

“There was one patient onboard with an RFDS pilot, doctor and flight nurse. Everyone is safe and well. However, there has been damage to the aircraft.

“Alternative arrangements are underway to transfer the patient to Perth.”

RFDS WA chief executive Judith Barker praised all aboard for ensuring the incident ended happily.

“The safety of our people and patients is our top priority,” she said.

WA Police and The Department of Fire and Emergency Services attended the scene.