Should you be concerned about bird strikes when flying?

A bird strike occurs when a bird collides with an aircraft, typically during landing, take-off, or while flying at low altitude. With the advancement of climate change, bird migration patterns are shifting, making bird strikes a growing challenge for airlines and posing a significant threat to the safety of passengers and crew members.

When and where do bird strikes happen?

Most bird strikes happen during the early hours of the day or at sunset when birds are most active. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) reports that about 90% of bird strikes occur in the vicinity of airports. These strikes can cause serious damage to an aircraft, putting everyone on board at risk. In fact, if a bird is sucked into a jet engine, it can cause the engine to lose power, potentially resulting in an emergency landing.

One reason why bird strikes are so common is the high number of wild birds. A 2021 study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences estimated that the global wild bird population is at least 50 billion. The large population increases the likelihood of collisions between birds and aircraft.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimated that 292,000 wildlife strikes occurred in the US between 1990 and 2023. In the UK alone, there were 1395 confirmed bird strikes in 2022, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Recent bird strike-related accidents

In February 2025, South Korean authorities introduced new rules and equipment aimed at reducing accidents resulting from bird strikes in response to these concerns. The decision followed a tragic accident on 29 December 2024 in which 179 passengers lost their lives. The Ministry of Land in South Korea reported that bird activity detection systems will be installed by 2026 to help monitor and mitigate the risk.

Although bird strikes are often associated with commercial aircraft, smaller, single-engine planes are also at risk. Since 1988, there have been 262 reported fatalities worldwide and 250 aircraft lost due to bird strikes. This highlights the danger bird strikes pose across various types of aviation.

How do bird strikes disrupt flights?

Bird strikes not only result in accidents but also disrupt national and international flights. For example, in December 2024, an American Airlines flight from New York City to Charlotte, North Carolina was forced to make an emergency landing at JKF Airport shortly after take-off when a bird strike causes an engine fire.

Additionally, the US Fish & Wildlife Service estimates that bird strikes have caused around $900 million in damage. U.S. civil and military aircraft annually. This figure emphasizes the financial and safety risks associated with bird strikes.

How are bird strikes prevented?

Efforts to mitigate bird strikes include a combination of conventional and innovative measures. For instance, Muan International Airport in South Korea has started using air cannons and loudspeakers to deter birds from entering the vicinity of the airport. Moreover, technology plays a crucial role in addressing the issue. Advances in aircraft design, such as the introduction of reinforced windshields and engines, help reduce the likelihood of damage during a bird strike.

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Uma publicação partilhada por 한국공항공사 (@airport.korea)

Should pilots receive more training?

Training is also a vital element. Currently, there is insufficient simulated training for pilots and air traffic control staffon how to manage bird strikes. Incorporating such training into aviation programmes would help better equip professionals to handle emergencies effectively.