Bird Strike Prevention: Technologies and Prevention Strategies

 

Bird strikes, or collisions between birds and aircraft, have been a safety concern since the dawn of aviation. These incidents not only threaten the lives of passengers and crew but also impose substantial economic costs on airlines and airport operators. The global resurgence of air traffic post-COVID-19 has amplified the need for effective bird strike mitigation measures.

Data from the National Wildlife Strike Database (NWSD), maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), offers an in-depth perspective on the scope and scale of bird strikes. Between 1990 and 2023, the NWSD recorded a steady increase in reported incidents, peaking at 19,603 strikes in 2023—a 14% rise from 2022. This growth outpaced the increase in aircraft movements at Part 139-certificated airports (6%) and general aviation airports (5%), suggesting that improved reporting mechanisms and elevated bird activity have significantly contributed to the trend.

Strikingly, while the overall number of strikes has risen, the rate of damaging strikes below 1,500 feet above ground level has remained stable at larger airports since 2000. However, general aviation airports have reported a sharp increase in damaging strikes within the same altitude range. This discrepancy highlights the varied risk profiles and mitigation challenges that exist across different types of airports, underscoring the need for tailored strategies to address bird strike risks effectively.

Efficient reporting mechanisms are vital to understanding and mitigating wildlife strike risks. For 2023, electronic reporting using FAA Form 5200-7E accounted for 71% of all strike reports submitted, while less than 1% of submissions were made on paper. Furthermore, 17% of the reported incidents had multiple submissions; most such cases involved at least one electronic report. This shows increasing reliance on digital aids for detailed and accurate strike documentation.

Effective Bird Strike Prevention Methods 

Mitigating bird strikes requires a combination of technological innovations, physical deterrents, and operational strategies tailored to address site-specific challenges. Avian radar systems play a pivotal role in tracking bird movements, offering real-time data on size, speed, direction, and position, which allows air traffic controllers to mitigate collision risks by adjusting flight schedules.

Physical barriers such as bird netting effectively prevent birds from nesting in semi-enclosed spaces, including hangars and rooftops, reducing avian activity near operational zones. Similarly, laser deterrents, when properly applied, are effective in repelling certain bird species by exploiting their sensitivity to specific wavelengths.

Emerging evidence suggests that landing lights with tailored flashing patterns can discourage birds from approaching runways and flight paths. While research continues, this non-invasive method holds promise for enhancing safety during critical flight phases.

In aviation, bird strike prevention is addressed through advanced technology and operational adjustments. Operational Risk Management (ORM) systems utilize real-time data to identify and classify bird movements. These systems enable air traffic controllers and pilots to assess collision risks and implement strategies such as adjusting flight operations or deploying bird deterrents. Alongside ORM, pilots play a direct role in mitigating bird strikes by taking specific actions:

• Reducing aircraft speed when birds are detected, minimizes impact forces.
• Rerouting flights based on alerts from ORM systems and air traffic control.

Aircraft design also plays a critical role in bird strike prevention. Incorporating impact-resistant materials into components such as windshields and engine nacelles ensures aircraft can withstand collisions without compromising safety. These advancements, coupled with strategic planning, enhance resilience to potential bird strikes.

Latest Technologies in Bird Strike Prevention

Technological advancements have revolutionized bird strike prevention by providing tools for early detection, deterrence, and mitigation. Bird detection radars are a key innovation, using radio frequency signals to monitor birds in real time. These systems detect size, speed, direction, and position, enabling air traffic controllers and pilots to assess collision risks. Alerts allow for timely actions, such as rerouting flights or delaying takeoffs, significantly reducing the likelihood of bird strikes.

Laser deterrent systems offer a non-invasive method to keep birds away from critical areas. These systems project visible light patterns designed to mimic predator behaviour, creating a visually disruptive environment for birds. They are often equipped with automatic activation and adjustable parameters, allowing them to adapt to varying species, environmental conditions, and operational needs. This flexibility makes lasers an effective deterrent across diverse airport environments.

Radar systems are revolutionizing bird strike prevention by offering real-time detection and tracking of bird activity around airports. Advanced systems, such as the MERLIN radar, utilize S-band frequencies to detect birds as small as a few millimetres within a 6–8 nautical mile radius. These systems not only identify bird species and flight paths but also assess collision risks using sophisticated algorithms. Alerts generated by these systems allow air traffic controllers to implement preemptive measures, such as adjusting flight schedules or deploying deterrents. Airports using radar systems have reported up to a 95% reduction in bird strike incidents.

Infrared bird detection enhances monitoring capabilities through thermal cameras, which identify birds by detecting their heat signatures. Operating in all weather conditions, these systems track bird movements in real-time and relay information to airport personnel for immediate action. The ability to detect well-camouflaged birds, even in dense vegetation, makes infrared technology valuable to wildlife management programs.

Cockpit bird strike warning systems add another layer of protection by providing pilots with real-time visual and audible alerts of bird activity near the aircraft. Integrated with flight management systems, these warnings appear on navigation displays, enabling informed decision-making during critical flight phases.

Bird control units complement these technologies by managing wildlife on and around airfields. Equipped with tools such as sound deterrents, netting, and mobile monitoring, these units work around the clock to minimize bird activity. Together, these advanced systems and coordinated efforts form a comprehensive approach to reducing bird strike risks and ensuring aviation safety.

Acoustic devices, such as Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRAD), mimic predator calls or emit warning signals to scare birds away. These tools are often paired with visual deterrents like laser systems, which project beams that irritate and repel birds. Combining these methods creates an inhospitable environment for birds, reducing their presence in critical areas.

The use of predator-like robots and trained falcons creates an impression of active predation, deterring birds from entering restricted zones. While robots mimic predator behaviour over large distances, trained falcons provide a natural and dynamic deterrent. These methods are highly effective in creating hostile environments for birds, particularly in areas with heavy avian populations. However, falconry has operational limitations, such as requiring skilled handlers and being subject to weather conditions. In contrast, robotic predators can be deployed consistently, with fewer resource constraints, making them a more scalable solution for airports with higher traffic volumes.

 

Best Practices for Preventing Bird Strikes: Insight on Airports and Airlines

Collisions between birds and aircraft are a persistent challenge for aviation, with significant implications for safety, operational efficiency, and costs. To address this, airports and airlines implement a range of strategies aimed at minimizing the risk of bird strikes through proactive prevention and collaboration.

At airports, habitat management is a critical component of bird strike prevention. This involves altering the surrounding environment to make it less attractive to birds. Techniques include minimizing standing water, managing vegetation to discourage nesting, and installing physical barriers such as nets to deter birds from accessing certain areas. Airports also deploy advanced bird detection systems, such as radar, to monitor avian activity in real-time, enabling operators to take timely action. Additionally, sonic deterrents, lasers, and even trained falcons are used to scare birds away from critical zones.

Airlines also play a pivotal role in bird strike prevention by collaborating closely with airport authorities. Regular communication ensures that flight paths and schedules are adjusted based on bird migration patterns and local avian activity. Moreover, pilots are trained to recognize and respond to potential bird strike scenarios, improving their ability to mitigate risks during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing.

Technological advancements have further enhanced prevention efforts. Engine manufacturers design engines to withstand bird strikes, reducing the severity of potential incidents. Moreover, researchers are exploring innovative solutions, such as lighting systems that make aircraft more visible to birds, decreasing the chance of collision.

Aviation authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), have established regulations and guidelines to support these efforts. The combined approach of habitat management, technology, and training ensures a comprehensive strategy for minimizing bird strikes, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency in the aviation industry.

 

Bird Strike Prevention Strategies for Pilots

Bird strikes continue to pose a significant threat to aviation safety, despite ongoing efforts to mitigate their impact. While most incidents result in only minor damage to aircraft, severe collisions can have catastrophic consequences. These occurrences are particularly prevalent during the takeoff and landing phases of flight when aircraft operate at lower altitudes where bird activity is concentrated.

Airline pilot, Thomas Paul:

“All were minor, except for a dramatic incident where a bird hit our windshield unexpectedly. The main safety issue with this bird strike was the surprise factor, which can be startling for pilots during critical phases of flight.”

Mitigating bird strikes begins with proactive measures to avoid such incidents. Pilots can significantly reduce risks by adhering to several fundamental guidelines, such as reviewing bird activity reports and advisories before and during flights. Avoiding low-altitude flight paths over bird habitats or migratory routes further minimizes potential encounters. Additionally, deploying visual and auditory deterrents, such as lights and noise, can effectively disperse birds near runways or in flight. Pilots should also remain vigilant for indicators of potential bird strikes, including visual sightings, radar detections, abnormal noises, or vibrations.

In the event of a bird strike, pilots must promptly implement emergency protocols based on the severity and location of the impact. Essential actions include declaring an emergency, evaluating the extent of damage or system failures, and isolating affected engines or systems. Decisions regarding flight continuation or diversion should be made in coordination with air traffic control and cabin crew. Pilots must also prepare for potential emergency landings or evacuations while maintaining clear communication to ensure passenger safety and operational clarity.

Following a bird strike, pilots are required to report the incident to the appropriate aviation authorities. The details of key information such as the time, date, altitude, airspeed, phase of flight, location, and number and type of birds involved. Documenting the extent and precise location of the damage is equally critical. These reports contribute to a comprehensive database that enables the aviation sector to analyze trends. Additionally, pilots should engage in post-incident debriefings with colleagues and instructors extracting lessons and refining future responses based on feedback.

Training pilots to effectively respond to bird strikes is best achieved through simulation and advanced training tools. Flight simulators, computer-based platforms, and virtual reality environments recreate realistic scenarios, including engine failures, fires, instrument malfunctions, and control loss. These simulations allow pilots to hone their skills, enhance decision-making, and build confidence in a controlled, risk-free setting. Immediate feedback and performance evaluations further support skill development and readiness.

Providing pilots with a comprehensive education on bird strikes is vital. This includes understanding the causes, implications, statistical trends, and mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the insights from aviation experts and regulatory authorities. Pilots can access diverse learning resources such as manuals, videos, webinars, and online courses to stay informed about the latest developments and innovative solutions in bird strike prevention and management. Continuous education fosters a proactive approach to safety and preparedness.

Effectively addressing bird strikes necessitates a collaborative approach across the aviation ecosystem. Airlines, airport authorities, regulatory bodies, aircraft manufacturers, researchers, wildlife management teams, and conservationists must work together to share expertise, resources, and experiences. This collective effort cultivates a culture of safety and accountability while facilitating the implementation of innovative solutions and strategies to mitigate the risks and consequences of bird strikes. Coordinated action ensures a unified and effective response to this ongoing challenge. 

 

Regulations for Birdstrikes: A Global Perspective

Bird strikes, or wildlife strikes involving birds and aircraft, represent a significant safety concern in aviation globally. Regulatory frameworks addressing this issue vary across regions but share common goals: enhancing aviation safety, reducing the risk of bird-aircraft collisions, and minimizing operational disruptions. The major regulations formulated are the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India, Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN),  which are further discussed below;

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) establishes global standards to enhance aviation safety, including specific measures for mitigating bird strikes. Annex 14 of the ICAO framework mandates airports to assess wildlife hazards and implement robust control mechanisms. A notable implementation of ICAO’s recommendations can be observed at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Nepal. In 2000, TIA formed a Bird Hazard Control Committee, aligning with ICAO’s prescribed practices. This initiative underscores the role of ICAO’s guidelines in fostering systematic hazard management at airports globally.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforces stringent design standards for aircraft to ensure resilience against bird strikes. Under FAA regulations, critical aircraft components such as windshields and engine nacelles must meet defined impact resistance thresholds. The “Miracle on the Hudson” incident of 2009 exemplifies the significance of these standards. Despite the catastrophic bird strike leading to dual engine failure, the aircraft’s design and the crew’s adherence to training protocols enabled a safe emergency landing, emphasizing the FAA’s pivotal role in enhancing bird strike survivability.

European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) integrates ICAO standards into its regulatory framework, requiring member states to adopt comprehensive bird strike mitigation strategies. Frankfurt Airport in Germany serves as a benchmark for EASA-compliant practices. The airport employs advanced radar detection systems to monitor bird activity and issues real-time alerts to reroute flights as necessary. This proactive approach demonstrates how technology can complement regulatory efforts to minimize aviation risks associated with wildlife.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India mandates Wildlife Hazard Management Programs across all airports to address bird strike risks. Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi exemplifies successful implementation. Utilizing measures such as stringent waste management protocols and sound cannons to deter bird activity. These initiatives reflect the DGCA’s commitment to reducing bird strike incidents through systematic habitat management and hazard control.

Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has implemented a structured approach to bird strike prevention. They include mandatory reporting protocols and the establishment of a National Bird Strike Control Committee. Collaborative efforts with ICAO have enabled CAAN to identify high-risk zones at TIA and implement targeted measures. Measures such as closing waste disposal sites near the airport and deploying advanced bird deterrents. These interventions highlight CAAN’s proactive role in addressing bird strike challenges in a geographically sensitive region.

Conclusion

Bird strikes remain a significant concern in aviation, with far-reaching implications for safety, operations, and costs. The rising number of reported incidents highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions and collaboration among airlines, airports, and regulators. With growing air traffic, customized strategies are crucial to manage bird-related risks at different airports.

Technological advancements such as bird detection radars, laser deterrents, and infrared monitoring systems have revolutionized prevention efforts. Combined with operational measures like habitat management and pilot training, these innovations form a robust defence against bird strikes. Aircraft design improvements, including impact-resistant materials, further enhance safety.

Reducing bird strike risks requires a comprehensive and unified approach. The aviation industry continues to mitigate risks and enhance safety through advanced technologies, stringent regulations, and collaborative efforts. These strategies exemplify a collective commitment to addressing the challenges of bird strikes and ensuring safer skies for the future.