The impact of bird strikes on aircraft: causes, consequences, and preventive measures

 

 Bird strikes pose a significant threat to aviation safety, potentially endangering both passengers and aircraft. When an airborne creature collides with an aircraft during flight, takeoff, or landing, it is referred to as a bird strike. While bird strikes are a common occurrence, they can result in severe consequences, including damage to the aircraft structure, loss of thrust, engine failure, and, in rare cases, human casualties. Understanding the effects of bird strikes and implementing preventive measures is crucial to ensure safer skies.

 

Causes and Frequency of Bird Strikes

Bird strikes typically occur during takeoff, landing, or low-altitude flight when aircraft are in close proximity to bird habitats. These incidents can happen when birds are sucked into the engines, collide with the aircraft's windscreen, or strike other critical components. The force of impact and the resulting damage depend on various factors, including the size and weight of the bird, the speed difference between the bird and the aircraft, and the location of the collision.

Most bird strikes occur during daylight hours since birds predominantly fly during the day.  In the United States alone, approximately 13,000 bird strikes are reported each year, with the majority occurring near airports during takeoff and landing.

Force of Impact and Damage

The force generated during a bird strike can be substantial, even from relatively small birds. For instance, a 12-pound Canada goose striking an aircraft traveling at 150 mph generates a force equivalent to a 1,000-pound weight dropped from a height of 10 feet. When birds are ingested into jet engines, they can displace fan blades, causing a cascading effect that may result in engine failure. Engine failure poses a severe risk to flight safety, as it can lead to loss of power, reduced maneuverability, and potential control issues for the aircraft.

Consequences of Bird Strikes

The severity of aircraft damage resulting from bird strikes varies based on the size of the aircraft. Smaller propeller-driven aircraft are more susceptible to structural damage, such as windscreen penetration, damage to control surfaces, or the empennage. In contrast, larger jet-engined aircraft face the risk of engine ingestion, which can lead to partial or complete loss of control.  The damage caused by bird strikes typically affects the forward-facing areas of the aircraft, including the windscreen, nose cone, and engines. While windscreen damage may necessitate a diversion to a nearby airport due to potential cabin pressure loss, engine ingestion can result in engine failure or serious power loss, requiring an immediate landing.

Photo: Scare Crow

 

Photo: New York Post

Notable Incidents

One of the most famous bird strike incidents is US Airways Flight 1549, commonly known as the 'miracle on the Hudson.' In 2009, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds shortly after takeoff, causing both engines to fail. The skilled pilot managed to perform a successful emergency water landing on the Hudson River, saving all onboard. While such incidents are rare, they highlight the potential dangers and the importance of addressing the bird strike risk.

Plane hit the bird in Sully (2016)

Birds scene at 1:46

Preventive Measures

Efforts to prevent bird strikes primarily fall under the responsibility of the aviation industry. Addressing the bird strike risk requires increased awareness, preventive strategies, and effective reporting systems. These are various measures to prevent bird strikes and enhance aviation safety:

  Increased Awareness and Training: 

Flight crews play a vital role in reducing the possibility and effects of bird strikes. By enhancing their awareness of the risk and equipping them with appropriate training, they can better respond to bird strike incidents. Comprehensive training programs should include information on bird behavior, flight patterns, and recognition techniques to help pilots identify potential hazards and take appropriate action.

 Reporting and Data Collection: 

Accurate reporting of bird strikes is crucial for identifying high-risk areas and developing effective preventive measures. Collaborative efforts between airlines, airports, and aviation authorities are essential to encourage the timely and accurate reporting of bird strike incidents. Sharing this data with organizations such as the Bird Strike Committee allows for the analysis of trends and the development of targeted prevention strategies.

 Habitat Management and Airport Planning: 

Modifying or removing bird habitats near airports can significantly reduce the bird population in close proximity to flight paths. Employing wildlife management techniques, such as installing barriers, using bird repellents, and employing trained falcons or dogs to deter birds, can help prevent bird strikes. Collaborating with environmental experts and conducting regular habitat assessments can inform effective habitat management practices.

 Aircraft Design and Engineering: 

Aircraft manufacturers employ design features to minimize the potential damage caused by bird strikes. Reinforced windshields, bird-resistant materials, and engine enhancements help mitigate the impact of bird strikes on critical aircraft components. Continual research and development in aircraft design and engineering contribute to improved safety standards and enhanced resistance to bird strikes.

 Technology and Innovation: 

Incorporating advanced technologies can aid in the detection and prevention of bird strikes. Avian radar systems, thermal imaging cameras, and bird detection software can assist in monitoring bird activity near airports. These systems provide real-time information, enabling proactive measures to be taken, such as adjusting flight paths or implementing bird dispersal techniques.

Accipiter Radar - Detect and track birds

Photo: Accipiter Radar

 Collaborative Efforts and Best Practices: 

Establishing partnerships and sharing best practices among airlines, airport authorities, and wildlife management organizations can lead to comprehensive bird strike prevention programs. Collaboration allows for the exchange of knowledge, implementation of effective measures, and the development of standardized protocols to enhance aviation safety.

Bird at 1:44

 Bird strikes pose a significant challenge to aviation safety, potentially causing damage to aircraft structures, loss of thrust, and engine failures. While bird strikes are relatively infrequent, they can have catastrophic consequences in rare cases. The aviation industry continues to work on implementing preventive measures and utilizing advanced technologies to reduce the risk of bird strikes. Enhancing awareness, monitoring bird activity, and developing robust strategies are crucial steps to ensure safer skies for both aircraft and wildlife.