Birdstrike Risk Management

Birdstrike Risk Management encompasses the strategies, technologies, and programs used by airports and aviation authorities to minimize the risk of collisions between aircraft and wildlife (primarily birds).

• Habitat management: Removing food sources, standing water, and vegetation that attract birds near runways
• Active dispersal: Pyrotechnics, laser harassment, trained raptors (falconry), and distress calls
• Radar monitoring: Avian radar systems track bird movements in real time
• Reporting: Mandatory birdstrike reporting (ICAO Bird Strike Information System)
• Engine certification: Engines must demonstrate capability to ingest birds of specified sizes (FAR 33.76)

Birdstrikes cause an estimated $1.2 billion in damage to commercial aviation annually worldwide.