The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is intensifying efforts to address the increasing threat of bird strikes in airports nationwide following a tragic airplane crash in South Korea in December 2024, reportedly caused by a bird strike, which claimed 179 lives.
Bird strikes at NAIA remain alarmingly high, with 181 incidents recorded in 2024. While CAAP has introduced various measures, like dispersal tools and habitat control, long-term solutions are still needed. The agency also recorded 480 bird strikes nationwide in 2024, emphasizing the widespread nature of the issue.
CAAP and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) are actively working to mitigate these hazards. Birds often gather near grassy airport areas, drawn to insects, lizards, and frogs from drainage systems. When sucked into aircraft engines, these birds pose a significant threat. General Manager Eric Ines shared that deterrent measures such as acoustic devices, methane-powered cannons, and balloons with predator eyes have been deployed. However, birds eventually adapt, reducing the effectiveness of these methods.
Pigeons, in particular, present a unique challenge. Their erratic behavior complicates efforts to clear them from airport vicinities. To address this, local governments are urged to enforce an 8-kilometer no-pigeon-raising zone around airports.
Also a significant concern is the controversial bird sanctuary near Cavite’s coastal road, close to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Originally a reclaimed site, the area became a pseudo-sanctuary for migratory birds after transforming into a dumping ground. Aviation experts have questioned its designation, noting its artificial origins and the heightened aviation risks it poses. The Philippines, located along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, welcomes over 150 migratory bird species annually, but critics argue that conservation efforts should not endanger human lives.
The bird strike issue gained urgency following the Jeju Air crash in South Korea, which underscored the global impact of bird strikes. Aviation experts warn that bird strikes not only jeopardize safety but also result in billions of dollars in damages annually, with engines being most vulnerable.
As migratory birds continue their seasonal routes, CAAP is ramping up its Wildlife Hazard Management Program. However, balancing aviation safety with environmental conservation remains a pressing challenge for Philippine authorities.