The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) acknowledged that bird strikes are a serious threat to air travel with 181 cases reported at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in 2024, prompting it to initiate extra measures aimed at ensuring flight safety.
While the agency has implemented measures such as dispersal tools and habitat control, there is still a need for long-term solutions. It is currently taking steps to address the growing threat of bird strikes at airports nationwide, especially after a tragic airplane crash in South Korea last December.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and CAAP are actively working to reduce these hazards. However, birds often congregate near grassy areas of the airport, attracted by insects, lizards, and frogs found in the drainage systems.
MIAA General Manager Eric Ines said various deterrent measures have been deployed, including acoustic devices, methane-powered cannons, and balloons designed to resemble predator eyes.
Unfortunately, birds tend to adapt to these methods over time, diminishing their effectiveness.
Pigeons pose a unique challenge due to their unpredictable behavior, making it difficult to remove them from airport surroundings. Local governments have been urged to enforce an eight-kilometer no-pigeon-raising zone around airports.
There is also controversy surrounding a bird sanctuary near Cavite’s coastal road, close to NAIA. Aviation experts have raised concerns about its artificial origins and the increased aviation risks it presents.
This area was originally a reclaimed site that transformed into a dumping ground, later becoming a pseudo-sanctuary for migratory birds. Experts have questioned its designation as a sanctuary, emphasizing the potential risks to aviation.
The Philippines, situated along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, sees the arrival of over 150 migratory bird species each year. However, critics argue that conservation efforts should not compromise human safety.
The challenge for Philippine authorities remains the balancing act between aviation safety and environmental conservation.
CAAP recently completed the Airport Wildlife Management Course at the Civil Aviation Training Center, demonstrating its commitment to wildlife protection and environmental sustainability.
The three-day course aimed to integrate environmental stewardship into aviation safety initiatives.
CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo highlighted the importance of addressing wildlife hazards and bird strikes in the aviation industry.
South Korean investigators have identified a bird strike, faulty landing gear, and a runway barrier as potential issues in the ill-fated Jeju Air crash, with the pilot warning of the bird strike before initiating a go-around.