Aviation authorities in Fiji are intensifying their efforts to combat the increasing threat of bird strikes, which pose a significant risk to flight safety. During a parliamentary session, Aviation Minister Viliame Gavoka highlighted the urgency of this issue, announcing that bird strikes endanger passengers, aircraft, and overall operations.
The country faced 41 bird strike incidents last year, marking an alarming increase from 33 in 2023 and 24 in 2022. A majority of these incidents involved foreign bird species, with local birds such as owls, mynas, and flying foxes also contributing to the stats. A notable incident occurred on October 29, when Fiji Airways Flight FJ450 from Christchurch to Nadi struck a flock of pigeons shortly after takeoff. Thankfully, the skilled handling by the flight crew ensured a safe landing despite damage to the aircraft’s nose, wings, and engines. Emergency responders retrieved six deceased pigeons from the runway, and authorities from both Fiji and New Zealand were notified.
Minister Gavoka outlined the heavy financial implications of bird strikes, citing that Fiji Airways had to ground four Boeing 737 aircraft last year, with the total cost reaching an estimated $19.2 million. Another incident in January resulted in engine damage costing around $4.8 million. Factors such as open drains, water sources, rubbish dumps, and nearby fruit trees draw birds to airports and must be managed to minimize risks associated with bird strikes.
To tackle this growing concern, Fiji Airports has implemented a comprehensive wildlife management plan that adheres to international best practices. This plan includes mapping bird habitats within a five-kilometer radius of airport zones, employing deterrent devices, and training staff to manage these risks effectively. Fiji Airways is actively assisting by sharing real-time bird strike data, conducting DNA tests on encountered species, and rerouting flights during peak migration seasons.
Moreover, a newly approved National Wildlife Hazard Management Committee for Aviation aims to bring together government, aviation, and environmental agencies to facilitate coordinated prevention efforts and ensure compliance with international standards. Gavoka emphasized the need for vigilance, drawing comparisons to global incidents such as the tragic Jeju Air crash, which resulted in the loss of 179 lives due to a bird strike.
The government’s commitment to aviation safety reflects a hopeful perspective, with proactive measures being put into place to maintain Fiji’s reputation as a safe and reliable aviation hub in the Pacific. By enhancing collaboration among stakeholders and promoting community awareness, Fiji is laying a robust foundation for safer skies, ultimately bolstering public confidence in its aviation services.