The Threat to Aviation Safety: Bird Strikes – Causes, Impacts, Prevention, and Recent Cases (Including Korea)

Hello. Today, we'll discuss a crucial topic in aviation safety: bird strikes. These collisions between birds and aircraft pose a significant risk, potentially leading to severe accidents. This post will explore all aspects of bird strikes, analyzing recent cases to highlight the ongoing seriousness of this issue.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Causes of Bird Strikes
3. Impacts of Bird Strikes on Aircraft
4. Bird Strike Prevention Measures
5. Recent Bird Strike Cases (Global and Korea)
6. Conclusion

1. Introduction 

Air travel is essential in modern society, but aviation safety remains a constant concern. Among various potential hazards, bird strikes—collisions between birds and aircraft—are a serious threat, capable of causing aircraft damage, flight delays, and even loss of life. This blog post delves into the causes, impacts, and prevention strategies of bird strikes, also examining recent cases globally and specifically in Korea to raise awareness about this critical issue.

2. Causes of Bird Strikes 

Bird strikes primarily occur at low altitudes during takeoff and landing, especially around airports, which often overlap with bird habitats and migration routes. Key causes include:

• Airport proximity to bird habitats: Wetlands, farmlands, and parks near airports provide food and shelter, increasing bird density.
• Bird migration seasons: During migration, bird populations surge in certain areas, elevating the risk of strikes.
• Aircraft noise and movement: Some birds are attracted to or disoriented by aircraft noise and movement.
• Weather conditions: Poor visibility due to fog or low clouds makes it harder for pilots to spot birds.

3. Impacts of Bird Strikes on Aircraft

Bird strikes can cause severe damage to various parts of an aircraft:

• Engine damage: Birds ingested into engines can damage blades, causing engine failure and potentially leading to crashes.
• Airframe damage: Collisions with the fuselage or wings can cause dents, punctures, or even structural damage.
• Windshield damage: Impacts on the cockpit windshield can obstruct the pilot's view, impairing their ability to control the aircraft.
• Navigation equipment damage: Strikes on radar, antennas, or other navigation equipment can disrupt their function.

These damages can result in flight delays, costly repairs, and, in worst-case scenarios, fatalities.

4. Bird Strike Prevention Measures 

Various measures are implemented to prevent bird strikes:

• Airport bird management: Managing habitats around airports, using bird deterrents, and controlling vegetation.
• Bird detection systems: Using radar, acoustic devices, and other technologies to detect bird activity in real-time and warn pilots.
• Aircraft design improvements: Designing engines with greater resistance to bird ingestion and airframes that minimize damage from impacts.
• Pilot training: Training pilots on procedures to follow in case of a bird strike.
• Flight schedule adjustments: Adjusting takeoff and landing times or avoiding certain routes during peak bird migration periods.

5. Recent Bird Strike Cases (Global and Korea) 

Numerous bird strike incidents are reported worldwide each year, some with severe consequences. The "Miracle on the Hudson" in 2009, when US Airways Flight 1549 landed on the Hudson River after a bird strike disabled both engines, is a prominent example highlighting the potential dangers.

In Korea:

A recent incident at Muan International Airport, suspected to be related to a bird strike, underscores that this remains a significant issue in Korea. According to news reports, Muan Airport has recorded the highest bird strike rate among Korean airports in the past six years, with ten incidents. This is attributed to the airport's proximity to tidal flats and migratory bird habitats. (Citations: Hankyoreh, MBN News)

Furthermore, between 2019 and the first half of 2024, 623 bird strikes were recorded at Korean airports, indicating a rising trend. (Citations: Chosun Ilbo, Korea Economic Daily)

6. Conclusion 

Bird strikes are a serious threat to aviation safety, and effective prevention strategies are crucial. Recent incidents in Korea emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance. Continued efforts and cooperation among airport operators, airlines, pilots, and relevant authorities are essential to minimize the risks posed by bird strikes. This post aims to raise awareness of this issue and promote greater attention to aviation safety.