How Much Damage Do Birds Cause to Planes?

Birds cause on average $1.2 billion of damage to commercial aircraft worldwide. Within the US, that figure is estimated to be as much as $715 million per year. The largest perpetrators are sea gulls and geese that tend to get sucked into jet engines and crash into windscreens. The collision between a bird and an aircraft is called a bird strike.

More about birds and airplanes:

• The JFK airport in New York City has the highest bird accident incidence rate in the United States.
• A team of falcons, and falconers who train them, is sometimes used by airports to keep geese and sea gulls away from the runways.
• Most bird strikes happen during aircraft takeoff or landing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do bird strikes happen?

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there are more than 14,000 bird strikes reported in the United States each year. However, this number is likely an underestimate as not all strikes are reported. Bird strikes are a common occurrence but thankfully, most do not result in significant damage to aircraft.

What types of damage can birds cause to planes?

Birds can cause various types of damage to aircraft, ranging from minor dents and scratches to severe structural damage. The most vulnerable parts are engines, where birds can be ingested, leading to engine failure or loss of power. Windshields and wings can also be damaged, potentially affecting the plane's aerodynamics and safety.

What is the most dangerous type of bird strike for an aircraft?

The most dangerous bird strikes involve large birds or flocks, as they have more mass and can cause more significant damage. Strikes that occur during takeoff or landing, or those that affect multiple engines, are particularly hazardous. Engine ingestion of birds is a critical concern since it can lead to engine failure and, in rare cases, force an emergency landing.

Can bird strikes be fatal?

While extremely rare, bird strikes can be fatal. The risk of fatalities increases if a strike causes critical damage during sensitive phases of flight, such as takeoff or landing. According to the FAA, there have been over 25 fatalities in the United States since 1990 due to wildlife strikes, with the majority being attributed to bird strikes.

What measures are airports taking to prevent bird strikes?

Airports employ a variety of wildlife management strategies to reduce the risk of bird strikes. These include habitat modification to make the area less attractive to birds, use of scare tactics like pyrotechnics or trained predators, and radar systems to detect and monitor bird activity. Some airports also manage local bird populations to keep numbers low.

How do pilots handle a bird strike during flight?

Pilots are trained to handle bird strikes calmly and efficiently. If a strike occurs, they follow standard procedures which may include shutting down a damaged engine, assessing the aircraft's handling and systems, and communicating with air traffic control. If necessary, they will perform an emergency landing at the nearest suitable airport to ensure passenger safety.