Abstract
Aim: Identification of risks following collisions between aircraft and birds, and exposure of socio-economic consequences after such incidents.
Introduction: Aircraft collisions, with small objects, present a serious problem in connection with the safety of passengers, cargo and technical equipment. Most common incidents involve collisions with birds. This article presents emerging hazards caused by birds and other small objects, which collide with fast moving aircraft in the air or on the runway.
Methodology: Incidents known as “Foreign Object Damage” are illustrated historically with a particular emphasis on emerging trends found in current technical, environmental and organisational circumstances. The author analysed causes leading to the increased probability of bird collisions with aircraft and examined issues associated with the high risk of accidents aligned with an increase in air traffic volume and bird acclimatisation to prevailing environments in the vicinity of airports. The article contains data about frequency of collisions and associated causes. An analysis was performed on data in respect of civil as well as military aviation, with a particular emphasis placed on information derived from USA and Great Britain. The author described approaches to minimise the risk of collision between aircraft and birds, and discussed the economical effectiveness of actions undertaken to manage the environment surrounding airports. The article highlights the role performed by international provisions covering risk mitigation, which define minimum norms, requirements and procedures regulating aircraft design, manufacturing processes, technical support, equipment use and awarding of licences to staff.
Conclusions: The collision of aircraft with birds is a global problem and involves all elements associated with aviation. The author advanced an argument that the greatest potential for long-term efforts to reduce the risk of collisions between aircraft and birds lies in the design of safe airframe structures and engines which disperse as well as absorb energy created by the impact. This, accompanied by the development of ground-based and aircraft systems which, facilitate monitoring and prediction of bird behaviour, will which assist ground personnel and air crew in decision-making.
Keywords: aircraft safety, aircraft, costs, birds, collision
Type of article: review article