Rising Bird-Hit Incidents at Delhi Airport Highlight Need for Enhanced Safety Measures
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport has recorded the highest number of bird-hit incidents among all airports in India over the past five years, according to data shared by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in Parliament. This alarming trend has raised concerns about aviation safety and prompted discussions on how to address the growing threat posed by wildlife near airport premises.
The data, provided in response to a question raised by Swati Maliwal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Rajya Sabha, reveals a significant increase in such incidents. In 2020, there were 62 reported cases, which rose sharply to 185 in 2023. The numbers slightly declined to 130 in 2024, and so far this year, 41 incidents have been documented in the first half of 2025. These figures underscore the persistent challenge that IGI Airport faces in managing wildlife-related risks.
In contrast, other major airports such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have not exceeded 90 bird-hit incidents in any given year during the same period. This stark difference highlights the unique challenges faced by Delhi’s airport, which is located in a region with a high concentration of birds and other wildlife.
To tackle this issue, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has emphasized the importance of following Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) regulations. These guidelines mandate the implementation of Wildlife Hazard Management Plans (WHMP) at all airports across the country. WHMPs are designed to identify potential wildlife hazards and develop strategies to mitigate their impact on aircraft operations.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which operates IGI Airport, has taken several steps to align with these regulations. The airport has adopted a multi-pronged approach to manage wildlife threats effectively. This includes the use of bird repellent techniques, rodent control measures, and scientific methods for rescuing and relocating animals. Additionally, the airport has focused on habitat management, insect control, and biological and chemical interventions to reduce the presence of wildlife in critical areas.
Another key component of DIAL’s strategy is raising awareness among staff and the local community about the importance of wildlife management. Collaboration with environmental experts and local authorities has also played a crucial role in implementing effective solutions.
Despite these efforts, the rising number of bird-hit incidents at IGI Airport indicates that more needs to be done. Continuous monitoring, regular updates to hazard management plans, and the adoption of advanced technologies could further enhance the safety of flights operating from the airport.
As the aviation sector continues to grow, ensuring the safety of both passengers and aircraft remains a top priority. Addressing wildlife hazards is an essential part of this effort, and IGI Airport’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges that need to be tackled proactively.
