Jetstar plane turns back to Wellington after hitting 'very large bird'

Jetstar flight JQ291 had to return to Wellington tonight after a large bird flew into one of its engines. File Photo /Mark Mitchell

A Jetstar plane was forced to turn back to Wellington tonight, reportedly after hitting a large bird a few minutes after takeoff.

Passengers on Flight JQ291 to Christchurch were quickly alerted to the fact that something was wrong after a burning smell filled the cabin, Stuff reported.

The airline's corporate communications manager, Phil Boeyen​, confirmed to Stuff a bird had flown into the left engine of the plane, which was sent back to Wellington.

"The flight landed normally and the aircraft is undergoing inspection for damage. Passengers were put on an alternative flight that departed around 8.15pm," he told Stuff.