Dhaka:The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has launched a nationwide initiative to enhance bird-strike prevention at airports through the procurement of modern deterrent equipment, recruitment of specialized personnel, and improved wildlife-hazard management systems.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, CAAB aims to equip all operational airports with adequate bird-control equipment, trained manpower, and effective monitoring systems within the next two to three years. This initiative is expected to ensure safer aircraft operations and minimize aviation hazards.
CAAB Member (Air Traffic Management) Air Commodore Md Noor-e-Alam stated that the authority is addressing existing equipment and manpower shortages while introducing a sustainable bird-hazard management framework. The plan includes assessing the requirement for bird-deterrent guns at eight airports, identifying a need for 26 guns nationwide, and initiating steps for license renewal and procurement to enhance capabilities.
In addition to equipment, CAAB is focusing on strengthening its bird-control workforce, identifying a need for 64 dedicated bird shooters. Efforts are underway to review the Table of Organisation and Equipment to accommodate manpower requirements. The Bangladesh Air Force is currently providing bird-control support from sunrise to sunset at several airports.
Furthermore, CAAB plans to introduce modern Bird Control Monitoring Systems (BCMS) at airports across Bangladesh, with HSIA already having a functional system. Regulatory reforms have also been implemented to facilitate the procurement and licensing of bird-control firearms. CAAB is prioritizing environmental management around airports to address wildlife hazards.
A national committee on bird strikes and wildlife-hazard management has been established under the leadership of Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, with its first meeting anticipated in November 2026. CAAB's latest statistics show 212 bird-strike incidents recorded nationwide this year, highlighting the importance of continued preventive measures as winter approaches.