Following the tragic Jeju Airlines crash that claimed 179 lives, reportedly due to a bird strike, Sri Lanka’s Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) has been highlighted as one of the safest airports globally in terms of wildlife hazard management, an official stated.
International airports are mandated to implement a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan (WHMP), outlining strategies to minimize risks posed by wildlife to aviation safety. According to the official, effective wildlife management involves altering animal behavior or modifying habitats to ensure they do not interfere with airport operations.
“The goal at aerodromes is to keep animals away from critical safety zones where aircraft operate, in line with guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” the official explained.
BIA has consistently maintained robust measures to ensure safety. “Our wildlife management program includes clearing drains, removing anthills, and eliminating anything that might attract wildlife, such as birds or other animals. It is an ongoing and rigorous process, with authorities remaining vigilant at all times,” he noted.
In addition, ICAO’s regularly updated standards and recommended practices guide these operations.
Special Focus on Peacocks at Mattala Airport
At Mattala International Airport (MIA), unique measures are in place to address peacocks, a ground-dwelling bird frequently spotted in the area. “We study their behavior, including their active hours and movements, and implement specific strategies to deter them from the aerodrome,” the official said.
Similar precautionary measures are applied at Sri Lanka’s international airports in Jaffna and Batticaloa, ensuring these facilities also remain safe from bird strikes.
