Bird Control at Airports

Bird control is particularly important at airports, maybe more than any other location. There are several types of control needed because of the dangers birds can create in this setting. Hangers, planes, runways and the passenger areas are all interesting places for them to gather and cause problems. There are many methods and deterrents that can be used to control the situation and we can help determine what will work best in each of the problem areas.

Bird Strikes

A bird strike happens when a bird hits a flying plane or a plane that is taking off or landing. This can be extremely dangerous and can even potentially cause an engine malfunction. This is a frightening thought for pilots and passengers and it can be avoided with the proper bird control systems in place.

In order to avoid these strikes, the entire airport needs to be treated so it is not a place birds can nest or congregate. Less birds near the runways means less strikes. Geese, gulls and other birds that are commonly found at airports are just looking for food and a comfortable space to build a nest, we want to make sure that those spaces are not available to them by installing treatment like shock tracks or spikes. This may also be combined with laser deterrents to scare the birds away before they get close.

Hangers

Airplane hangers are important to treat because they are close to the runways, which opens opportunities for bird strikes. Hangers are such large open buildings with huge openings that make it easy for the birds to enter. The size of the hanger also makes it easy for them to nest in places humans can not easily reach. Hangers are perfect places to use bird netting and possibly grid wires on the exterior.

The strikes are not the only danger when it comes to hangers, there is also the bird droppings. Highly acidic droppings are not wanted around equipment or planes. Paint and other surfaces can be ruined by it. Safety of employees should also be considered as the droppings can be slippery and create dangerous slip and fall situations.

Airport Buildings

Any structure on the airport grounds should be treated but the main building, where the patrons board and deboard the planes at the gates should absolutely be a priority. Planes are usually pulling right up to these buildings so they are in close proximity to the runways. Travelers are quickly moving about and can slip and fall in droppings at entrances and exits creating huge liabilities for the airport.

All exposed surfaces can be a problem. There are many ideal locations like ledges, window sills, overhangs, entryways, awnings, rooftops, jetways and the planes themselves to consider. Vulnerable places can be treated with shock strips that deliver a mild shock when a bird lands on them, grid wires to prevent them from being able to land, or spike strips.

A combination of several methods may be necessary. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation so we can evaluate the airport and offer an estimate for the necessary treatment. Safety is a huge concern when it comes to airports and we can offer you a plan for effective bird control at your airport. We will explain where you need deterrents and which ones would work best as well as an estimate for products and installation. We can even assist with clean up around buildings if needed. Call us today.