Just in case anyone feels like perusing this report, it goes into some stats, some specific incidents, analyses etc.
The overview is:
Birdstrikes continue to be a problem for aviation worldwide, costing approximately $US3 billion annually. Increasingly, funds are being directed towards research which focuses on bird control and avoidance methods. Two such methods which are proving to be successful, are the use of hand held laser devices to scare birds from the airport environment, and the use of the US developed Avian Hazard Advisory System (AHAS), which allows aircraft to avoid high-risk birdstrike areas.
This study investigated the Australian birdstrike data for the period 1991 to 2001. Although limited, the available data was able to be used to investigate birdstrike rates, species involvement and hazard potentials, as well as providing a time of day and phase of flight analysis. Additionally, the current study highlights the magnitude of some of the impact forces exerted during a birdstrike. The data suggest that there has been a significant increase in the rate of birdstrikes being recorded in Australia since 1992 (most notably between 1998 and 2001). It is unclear whether this is the result of an increasing strike hazard or an improving reporting culture. Both the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Australian data indicate that the majority of strikes occur on, or in the vicinity of, the airport environment, during the take off, approach or landing phases of flight.
An analysis of the strike data revealed that birdstrikes are most common during the earlier months of the year (January to May) and are at their lowest between June and August. The specific monthly pattern varies between locations, particularly between airports in the north and south of Australia: with airports in the north of Australia generally recording higher strike rates. The data also suggests that strikes are most common at dawn, and during the early morning and late afternoon periods of the day. However, this may be an artefact of aircraft activity levels during these times.
The hawk and the galah are the most commonly struck birds in Australia. However, the eagle and the ibis pose the most serious hazard to aircraft if struck. Development of ‘most struck’ and ‘potential hazard’ lists allow airport owners and operators to develop and prioritise control methods to suit their specific area.
All birdstrikes and bird hazards, no matter how insignificant they might appear, must be reported to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). An improved reporting culture will allow a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the bird hazard situation, which should in turn lead to the implementation of more effective control and management strategies.
The production of regular, standardised, educational and promotional material, regarding the birdstrike problem within Australia is recommended. This will not only increase awareness of the issues and the importance of reporting, but it will also help individuals and organisations in the industry to take the necessary steps to minimise the occurrence of birdstrikes.
It is also recommended that an Australian Birdstrike Working Group consisting of industry representatives from Australia be established. Such a body may not only enhance awareness of the safety issues surrounding birdstrikes, but may also determine directions for future research, regulations and procedures to minimise the risk posed to aircraft.
The full report is
here