BIRDS’ PREVALENCE, HAZARDS AND EVALUATION OF MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES AT THE RAWALPINDI / ISLAMABAD AIRPORT

Abstract

Pakistan is a signatory to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. According to this convention, it is an obligation for all member states to adopt measures for discouraging the presence of birds, on or in the vicinity of airport, that constitute hazard to aircraft operations. Bird population is an increasing threat to aircraft safety in most of the airports in Pakistan. Present study was carried out at Islamabad International Airport now called Benazir Bhutto International Airport (BBIA) to identify potentially hazardous bird species, their habitat and to evaluate management techniques at this airport. Kites (Milvus migrans) were found to be the main hazardous species present in the vicinity of the airport. Results of habitat survey suggested that the airport is situated in a landscape area rich in bird attractants. Three main water bodies Korang, Lai and Soan surround the airfield. Commercial areas, public parks, sports grounds, open garbage dumps and landfill sites present in the vicinity, provide ample feeding, nesting and roosting sites to potentially hazardous birds. In total 34 bird species and 63 plant species were recorded during this survey. Analysis of past bird strike record revealed that annual average number of bird strikes at BBIA during (2005-2012) was 26.62 ± 2.11 (S.E). In 57 percent of strikes records of BBIA (Civil Aviation Authority), bird species remained unidentified. However, of 43 percent of strikes with known bird type, birds of prey, mainly kite and eagle, were involved in 72 percent of the strikes. Kites were involved in 59 percent of all identified strikes. Analysis of damage by parts aircraft, suggested that engine damage was the cause of 92 percent of the accidents. Windshields were involved in 8 percent cases. Type of xxiv aircraft involved in collision with birds explored that A-310 accounted for 36 percent, B-373 for 19 percent, B-777 and ATR 10 percent each, B-747 for 5 percent, A-300, A-319, A-320, A-321 and A-332 two percent each. Seasonal variation in bird strikes was also envisaged. The results showed statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) between numbers of bird strikes occurring in all five seasons. Maximum strikes were recorded during fall (September-October), then in monsoon (July-August) followed by summer (May-June) and spring (Mar- Apr) and least during winter (November- February). Relationship between meteorological and bird strike data suggested that there was a significantly positive correlation between bird strikes and maximum temperature (r = 0.452, P < 0.01), minimum temperature (r = 0.422, P < 0.01), and rainfall (r = 0.242, P < 0.01). Positive regression coefficient (0.46) also indicated an increasing trend in bird strikes at Benazir Bhutto International Airport Islamabad. Eight study sites were selected for habitat survey, each representing a unique habitat supporting bird species. These sites were ranked by using Habitat Composite Index (HCI).Naturally preserved recreational area (Ayub Park) showed highest rank (9.7) for the presence of bird attraction sites, followed by commercial habitats (6) and then habitat near water body (5.6). Mean number of kites in all study sites was 24.2 ± 48.26 (S.E) and mean kite density was 0.003083. Highest number of kites was observed in the month of May followed by June then in September and August. Significant difference in number kite count (p < 0.05) was observed in all five seasons. Hourly distribution pattern of kite movement peaked at 1430-1500 till 1700. Airport authorities are practicing some management techniques to control bird at this airport. Shooting data revealed that number of mean monthly cartridges xxv fired during three year period, were 775 ± 72 (S.E) mean monthly birds shot recorded 298 ± 57(S.E). Mean monthly animals (stray dogs) killed were 26 ± 3 (S.E). Mean success rate of cartridges fired was 42 percent. Non-significant difference (p > 0.05) in bird shot was found between all five seasons. Mean monthly cost on cartridges used was Pak Rs. 27,125 (279 US $). Cost per animal (stray dogs) or bird killed was Pak Rs. 84 (0.86 US$). Annual cost on cartridges was Pak Rs. 325,383 ± 1485 (S.E) (3,579 ± 73 US$). The purpose of this study was to document birds’ prevalence, hazards and evaluation of management techniques at Islamabad International Airport. It is unlikely that the airport authorities would be able to manage bird free zone at their airport. The surrounding area of this airfield is highly conducive for birds’ activities and support potentially hazardous species. Large open garbage dumps in the surroundings of the airport should be removed with a view to reducing kites. It is important for the authorities to maintain correct bird strike record and to identify species correctly so that species’ behavior oriented control methods may be implemented. Moreover, habitat indexing showed difference in bird densities at each study site. On the basis of these indexing areas of high bird activity could be identified and management efforts could be focused in these areas. International and national rules and regulations must be followed strictly to ensure public safety.