Question #54:

How is aircraft operation affected by bird ingestion?

Answer:

Ingestion of birds into an engine may result in flameout, compressor stall, or complete engine failure. This is called a bird strike. Airports implement wildlife management programs to reduce bird hazards, but the risk remains. That is why, pilots are trained to follow bird strike procedures, including returning to the airport for aircraft inspection. Wildlife management programs include ground services using sounds of predators, pyrotechnics and trained predators to scare birds away. In addition, bird detection radar systems monitor activity in real time and help to inform pilots about bird hazards. Furthermore, before takeoff and landing, pilots should switch on the landing lights to repel birds.