- The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) will install a bird detection radar at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to enhance aviation safety.
- The radar will track bird sizes and movements, allowing air traffic controllers to warn pilots and safety crews.
- Kenya Airways has spent over $70 million on bird strike-related damages since 2020.
- In 2024-2025, the FAA recorded 19,400 wildlife strikes across 713 U.S. airports.
- A December 2024 Jeju Air crash in South Korea, which killed 179 passengers, was linked to a possible bird strike.
- Over 150 bird strikes occur worldwide daily, making JKIA’s new radar a crucial safety investment.
Enhancing Aviation Safety at JKIA
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is making a bold move to improve aviation safety by installing an advanced bird detection radar at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The new technology will help reduce costly aircraft damage and prevent potential accidents caused by bird strikes.
How the Bird Detection Radar Works
The new radar system will detect bird sizes, movements, and flight paths in real time. This information will be relayed to air traffic controllers, who can then alert pilots and safety crews to take necessary precautions. By improving early detection and response, this system aims to minimize the chances of bird strikes disrupting flight operations.
The Cost of Bird Strikes
Airline operators have suffered massive losses due to bird-related accidents. Kenya Airways, for instance, has reported spending over $70 million on bird strike-related repairs at JKIA since 2020. These incidents not only result in financial losses but also lead to flight delays, cancellations, and potential safety threats.
Aviation Disasters Linked to Bird Strikes
Bird strikes are not just a problem in Kenya—they are a global concern:
- In 2024-2025, the FAA recorded 19,400 wildlife strikes across 713 U.S. airports.
- In December 2024, a Jeju Air crash in South Korea killed 179 passengers, with investigators linking the accident to a bird strike.
- Over 150 bird strikes occur worldwide every day, posing a significant threat to air travel.
A Safer Future for Air Travel in Kenya
By investing in this cutting-edge radar system, KAA aims to position JKIA as a leader in modern aviation security. This initiative is expected to:
Improve flight safety and reduce the risk of bird strikes.
Minimize maintenance costs for airlines by preventing aircraft damage. Ensure smoother operations for both local and international flights.
As global air travel continues to grow, Kenya’s proactive approach to tackling bird strikes sets a strong precedent for other airports looking to enhance passenger safety and operational efficiency.
