The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is set to install a new bird detection radar at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to enhance aviation safety and reduce costly aircraft damage.
The advanced radar system will detect bird sizes and movement paths, relaying this crucial information to air traffic controllers who can alert pilots and safety crews to take preventive action.
This move comes as a relief to airline operators who have suffered significant losses due to bird strikes.
Nairobi-based Kenya Airways, for instance, reported spending over 70 million dollars on bird strike-related damages at JKIA since 2020.
Globally, bird strikes remain a major concern for aviation safety. In 2024-2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recorded approximately 19,400 wildlife strikes across 713 U.S. airports, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
Additionally, bird strikes have been linked to severe accidents, including a tragic incident in December 2024 when a Jeju Air flight crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea, claiming 179 lives. Investigations pointed to a bird strike as a possible cause.
With over 150 bird strikes reported daily worldwide, the implementation of bird detection technology at JKIA is a strategic step towards safeguarding aircraft operations.
The KAA hopes this initiative will significantly minimize disruptions and enhance the safety of air travel in Kenya.
