Aircraft Collisions With Birds (Order <i>Falconiformes</i> and <i>Accipitriformes</i>)

Abstract

Statistical data on aircraft collisions with birds of prey (Falconiformes and Accipitriformes) are analysed. The basis of the analysis was the results of the IPEE RAS study. The reasons and factors attracting birds of prey to airfields are considered. In the period from 2005 to 2022 seven species of birds of prey involved in 29 collisions with aircraft were identified. The largest number of birdstrike occur with common kestrel Falco tinnunculus and common buzzard Buteo buteo. The most collisions occur on the airport or in its vicinity; there is a 4.3 times more strikes by taking off than by landing. From raptor birds’ collisions suffer mainly engine and wing structure. Recommendations are given to control birds’ behaviour for minimizing strikes with birds of prey at the airfield.