(a) whether Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), Delhi has not enough manpower to scare
away birds from its runway resulting in large number of bird-hit accidents every year;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of bird-hit incidents at IGIA during the last two years and the loss suffered
as a result thereof; and
(d) the preventive measures the Government proposes to take in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION (SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)
(a) and (b):- At present, there is no shortage of manpower to scare away birds at Indira Gandhi International
(IGI) airport.
(c):- During the year 2008 and 2009, 67 bird-hit incidents each were reported. The Government does not
maintain any records regarding losses suffered by individual airlines due to bird - hit incidents.
(d):- Airfield Environment Management Committees have been constituted at all airports having scheduled
flights operations to identify sources of bird attraction and take the necessary steps for prevention of
bird strikes. The major steps taken to reduce bird-hits are as under:-
(i) A high power National Bird Control Committee (NBCC) has been set up by Government to monitor and adopt
policy decision for bird strikes prevention.
(ii) Grass cutting and checking water logging inside the airport.
(iii) Scaring and shooting of birds.
(iv) Wire meshing of hangars.
(v) Garbage dumping in covered bins and early removal thereof.
(vi) Regular joint inspection of areas around airport.
(vii) Establishment of modern abattoirs.