Bird collisions with planes: A growing risk at airports
9:39 AM EDT, June 19, 2024
A collision between an airplane and a bird is a common and real threat. We explain how often such incidents occur, where they usually take place, and what happens when they do.
As reported by CNN Travel, the first recorded collision with a bird was by Orville Wright in 1905 over a cornfield in Ohio. However, experts believe that similar incidents likely occurred even earlier. Currently, it is still not possible to completely protect against such situations.
When and where do bird collisions occur?
Considering the number of airplanes that fly around the world every day, it’s no surprise that bird collisions occur daily. Such incidents happen much more frequently in the spring and fall due to the seasonal migrations of birds.
According to the American International Civil Aviation Organization, up to 90% of bird collisions occur near airports. These situations most commonly happen when airplanes are taking off or landing, and much less frequently when they are at cruising altitude.
Most bird collisions occur early in the morning or at sunset when birds are most active. Pilots are trained to be particularly vigilant at dawn and dusk.
Many airplanes are equipped with radars that allow them to track bird flocks. However, this technology is not perfect for several reasons. Firstly, it does not work at higher altitudes; secondly, it does not detect individual flying birds.
What are the potential consequences of a bird collision?
The consequences of an airplane colliding with a bird depend on both the speed of the aircraft and the weight of the bird. However, the results can be extremely dangerous.
The most commonly used jet engines in passenger airplanes are turbofan engines. These engines contain a series of fan blades that compress the air. A collision with a bird or an animal that is ingested into one of these engines can cause serious damage to the fan blades, potentially leading to the failure of the entire engine.
If animals damage one engine unit, it does not pose a threat to flight safety, and the pilot can still continue the journey. The problem arises when birds get into both engines and destroy them. In such a case, an emergency landing will be necessary.
