This includes:
- number of wildlife and occurrences continue to increase
- need to continue to adapt controls and mitigation methods
- increasing difficulty in acquiring euthanasia permits.
We discussed the increase in bird counts and the increased activity in the winter months. Operators manage this by using:
- gas guns
- pyrotechnic guns
- conducting remotely piloted aircraft trials
- laser deterrents
- trialling different grass types and lengths.
It has become difficult to obtain euthanasia permits, while kangaroo and dingo numbers increase. NSW requires a kangaroo shooter approval.
Wild pig and deer numbers are also increasing.
What can operators do?
The Australian Aviation Wildlife Hazard Group (AAWHG) is Australia’s national wildlife strike mitigation committee.
Every 2 years the AAWHG holds a forum which is a highlight of the aviation wildlife hazard management calendar. It attracts industry representatives from around the world to discuss best practice aviation wildlife hazard management and safety.
The forum attracts experts from across the aviation industry. This includes:
- airport operators
- ground crew
- airlines
- pilots
- service and equipment suppliers
- wildlife specialists
- trainers
- ATC
- accident investigators and regulators.
What are we doing or have delivered?
The purpose of Advisory Circular AC 139.C-16 provides general information. It also includes guidance for the management of wildlife hazards at aerodromes:
Aerodrome operators should use the guidance in this circular for their processes. This will help you meet the requirements of the:
- Part 139 of CASR
- Part 139 MOS
- PANS-Aerodromes.
Operators should always consider their current and future operational environment and the needs of:
- pilots
- aircraft operators
- associated stakeholders.
This includes, but not limited to, the size and complexity of the aerodrome operation. Note: this guidance does not create or permit departures from regulatory requirements.