Indian govt reports rise in bird-hit incidents at airports; 1,782 cases recorded in 2025

Dhaka: The number of reported bird-hit incidents at airports across India increased to 1,782 in 2025, up from 1,278 recorded in 2024, the government informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday, February 12, said local media reports published recently.

Data shared in a written reply by Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol showed 6,337 bird-hit incidents were reported at airports in the country over the last five years. The figures highlight a steady rise in such occurrences in recent years.

According to the data, 775 bird-hit incidents were recorded in 2021, followed by 1,131 in 2022 and 1,371 in 2023. The number then rose to 1,278 in 2024 before climbing further to 1,782 in 2025, marking the highest annual tally in the five-year period.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has regulations and guidelines in place for the management of potential wildlife hazards at licensed airports. The framework is aimed at minimizing risks to aircraft during takeoff, landing, and ground operations.

Operators of licensed airports have developed Wildlife Hazard Management Plans (WHMP) and established procedures to identify the primary causes of bird-hit incidents. These measures focus on monitoring bird activity and implementing mitigation strategies within and around airport premises.

In addition, Airfield Environment Management Committees (AEMC) have been constituted at airports to identify sources of wildlife hazards and take necessary corrective steps. The committees coordinate with local authorities and other stakeholders to control and reduce bird activity in critical flight paths.