Birds near the runway: how Kazakh airports protect aircraft in autumn

Autumn migration makes birds an important aviation safety concern. Responding to a Kazinform inquiry, Kazakhstan’s aviation authority described how airports work to prevent aircraft–bird collisions. This is routine prevention, not a report of a particular accident.

Observation comes first

Airfield staff survey airport grounds and nearby areas, identify where birds gather and look for features that attract them. The choice of deterrent depends on species, behaviour, numbers, season and threat level. Patrols become more frequent during spring and autumn migration.

Airports use acoustic and visual equipment, pyrotechnics and lasers. According to the authority’s response, Astana airport also uses gas cannons, bioacoustic systems and mobile equipment. Methods may be combined and rotated so birds do not become accustomed to a single signal.

Why one device cannot solve it

A loud deterrent does not replace continual habitat monitoring. If food sources or attractive gathering places remain nearby, birds can return. The aim is to reduce the likelihood of flocks on the airfield and communicate risks to flight operations in time. Natural hazards cannot be eliminated altogether, so prevention is an ongoing task.

Sources

• www.inform.kz