FAA Data Reveals Sharp Increase in Wildlife Strikes Threatening U.S. Aviation Safety

Wildlife strikes involving U.S. civil aircraft are on the rise, with more than 22,000 incidents recorded in 2024, according to the latest data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). That marks a 14 percent increase over the previous year and translates to roughly 61 strikes every day.

Since 1990, more than 319,000 wildlife strikes have been reported nationwide, resulting in 82 fatalities and the destruction of 126 aircraft. Globally, wildlife strikes have caused over 643 deaths and destroyed more than 360 aircraft in the same period. The FAA attributes the increase largely to growing bird populations and the adoption of quieter turbofan engines, which make aircraft less detectable to birds.

High-Risk Strikes Still a Concern

While the majority of wildlife strikes cause only minor or superficial damage, the FAA report stresses that collisions at higher altitudes or with larger species remain a serious aviation hazard. In 2024 alone, two aircraft were completely destroyed as a result of wildlife strikes.

Industry Efforts Since the “Miracle on the Hudson”

Mitigation efforts have grown significantly since the famous 2009 “Miracle on the Hudson” incident, when US Airways Flight 1549 struck a flock of geese and made an emergency landing on the Hudson River. Since then, more than $400 million has been invested in airport wildlife management projects, with another $30 million allocated to research on wildlife detection and avoidance technologies.

These include the deployment of avian radar systems, bird migration forecasting tools, and improved aircraft lighting systems designed to enhance visibility and reduce the likelihood of bird strikes.

FAA Calls for Broader Management Strategies

Despite progress, the FAA cautions that “much work remains to be done.” The agency has urged airlines, airports, and regulators to expand strike reporting and adopt broader wildlife management strategies. These should extend at least five miles beyond airport boundaries, addressing risks during both the climb-out and approach phases of flight, when aircraft are most vulnerable.

With rising traffic levels and growing bird populations, the FAA emphasizes that reducing the risk of wildlife strikes will remain a critical aviation safety priority in the years ahead.


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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, avweb.com