Mitigating Bird Strike Risks at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport: A Scientific Assessment and Recommendations

*Heri Tarmizi

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Abstract: 

Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport (BTJ) in Aceh, Indonesia, faces emerging bird strike risks due to the proximity of a final waste disposal site attracting thousands of egrets. 

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the bird strike potential at BTJ Airport, considering avian behavior, environmental factors, and airport operations. Scientific recommendations are proposed to prevent bird strikes and ensure aviation safety in the region.

Introduction: 

Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport, nestled between hills, lowlands, and paddy fields in Blang Bintang, Aceh Besar, has historically reported no bird strike incidents. 

However, the recent establishment of a final waste disposal site approximately 5 km from the airport has raised concerns about potential bird strike risks. Egrets, comprising a significant portion of the local avian population, forage in the vicinity of the disposal site, creating a flight path that intersects with the airport's runway. 

This report aims to assess the bird strike potential at BTJ Airport and propose preventive measures to mitigate risks.

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Analysis of Bird Behavior: 

The avian species identified in the vicinity of BTJ Airport, including egrets, doves, pigeons, paddy field pipits, and bee-eaters, exhibit distinct foraging and flight patterns. Egrets, known for their communal feeding habits, travel daily between resting and feeding sites, with the disposal site serving as a critical feeding ground. 

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The flat and clear runway area presents a potential flyway for egrets, increasing the likelihood of bird strikes during takeoff and landing operations.

Environmental Factors: 

The geographical features surrounding BTJ Airport, characterized by hills, lowlands, and paddy fields, contribute to diverse avian habitats. The establishment of the final waste disposal site has altered local bird behavior, attracting large flocks of egrets foraging for food waste.

 The disposal site's proximity to the airport exacerbates the risk of bird strikes, as egrets traverse the airspace between resting and feeding sites.

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Airport Operations and Risk Assessment: 

Despite BTJ Airport's relatively low flight volume of 11 flights per day, the presence of egrets near the runway poses a significant risk to aviation safety. Bird strikes can cause aircraft damage, operational disruptions, and potential safety hazards for passengers and crew. 

A comprehensive risk assessment is essential to evaluate the potential impact of bird strikes on airport operations and identify preventive measures to mitigate risks effectively.

Scientific Recommendations for Bird Strike Prevention:

Habitat Management: 

Implement habitat modification techniques around the disposal site to deter egrets from foraging near the airport. This may include vegetation management, noise deterrents, and bird-repellent measures.

Bird Detection Systems: 

Deploy radar and acoustic sensors to monitor avian activity in airspace and provide real-time alerts to air traffic control and pilots.

Bird Deterrent Technologies: 

Install bird-scaring devices, such as visual deterrents and sound emitters, along the runway and airport perimeter to deter birds from entering critical flight paths.

Public Awareness and Education: 

Raise awareness among local communities, airport staff, and pilots about the risks of bird strikes and the importance of reporting avian sightings near the airport.

Conclusion: 

Mitigating bird strike risks at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates scientific research, environmental management, and aviation safety protocols. By implementing proactive measures to deter bird activity and enhance detection capabilities, BTJ Airport can effectively minimize the risk of bird strikes and ensure the safety of aircraft operations in the region.

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