The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported a 9.7 percent decrease in bird strike incidents across airports nationwide in September compared to the same period last year.
During the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing on Wednesday, CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio said most of the 44 commercial airports operated by the agency are located near coastal areas where migratory birds commonly feed.
Apolonio identified airports in Iloilo, Davao, and Puerto Princesa as among the high-risk locations for bird strikes.
To mitigate the risks, CAAP has been implementing a wildlife hazard management program in coordination with local government units and aviation industry partners. Part of the agency’s preventive measures includes regular grass-cutting and tree-trimming around airport vicinities to discourage birds from nesting near runways.
A bird strike occurs when a bird collides with an aircraft in flight, typically during takeoff or landing. Such incidents can vary in severity and may lead to flight delays, cancellations, and costly aircraft maintenance.
Earlier, AirAsia Philippines reported encountering more than 90 bird strike incidents in domestic airports between January and August, six of which caused damage to aircraft components.
Apolonio noted that engine-related damages from bird strikes are among the leading causes of flight disruptions.
