Avoiding and Surviving Bird Strikes

According to the FAA, pilots are asked to report encounters with all birds, bats, and terrestrial mammals larger than 2.2 pounds.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at 11:03 AM ET

Verified

When it comes to bird strikes, authorities want to know what kind of animal was hit and where the collision took place, including the altitude. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Wildlife, particularly birds and larger animals, poses a significant and growing hazard to aircraft at and around airports.
The FAA mandates pilots to report all wildlife strikes involving animals over 2.2 pounds to aid in data collection, wildlife management, and enhancing airport safety.
Factors like abandoned pets or compromised airport fences can attract wildlife, leading to increased strike risks from various animals, including predators.
Pilots should employ avoidance strategies when possible and, in the event of a wildlife strike, prioritize safe aircraft control before reporting the incident to the FAA.

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“What the —!” the learner cried out as we rolled out from landing.

Ahead of us some 1,000 feet down the runway there was a bald eagle standing on the centerline, scarfing down the carcass of what looked like a large white rabbit. We brought the aircraft to a stop as the bird stopped its feeding frenzy and hopped toward us, spreading its wings and obviously saying, “Come at me, bro!” in eagle.