Imran Khan’s Post

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Head of Ground Safety and SMS, NOVOAIR

Around 90% of bird strikes occur below 3,000 feet, primarily during takeoff and landing when aircraft are closer to the ground. This is where we see the highest risk, as both aircraft and birds are navigating the same airspace in and around airports. Interestingly, residential birds—those that reside around the airfield—are responsible for 75-80% of bird strikes due to their constant presence in these zones. Let’s also consider the unique threat posed by migratory birds and the challenges they bring to aviation safety. Birds follow specific flight paths during migration season, often crossing altitudes that align with aircraft during crucial flight phases. While  strikes above 5,000 feet remain uncommon, migratory birds can soar at mid-range altitudes during their long flights. A Flair Airlines Boeing 737-8 MAX, registration C-FLKO performing flight F8-641 from Toronto,ON to Winnipeg,MB (Canada) unfortunately met one of these birds on October 24th. As per TSB, Canada "After departing runway 15L, and while climbing through approximately 4000 feet, the aircraft encountered a flock of geese, at least one of which hit the captain's L1 windscreen, causing it to shatter. Portions of the windshield glass entered the flight deck as a result. The flight crew declared PAN PAN and requested to return to CYYZ, where they landed without further incident. As the captain was unable to see forward through the windscreen, the crew requested to be towed to their gate. The captain received minor injuries due to the shattered glass entering the flight deck." In addition to implementing various wildlife hazard management programs, pilots must maintain heightened vigilance, especially during the takeoff, climb and landing phases. Understanding the flying patterns and altitudinal ranges of both migratory and residential birds helps in minimizing risks and protecting both bird populations and passengers. 🌍🛩️ A reminder that shared skies require shared responsibility for the safety of all who navigate them! #AviationSafety #BirdStrikePrevention #MigratoryBirds

Patrick Ubochi

Experienced Airport Protocol and Logistics Professional

3mo

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