I flew the 146 for some 5 years. So many bird strikes that the Ops people caled me a chick magnet, and they weren't being complementary.
In the 2 and a bit years I've flown the 717, I've only experienced one bird strike. The ports, routes, and times are constant between the two types.
I'd be interested in any theory as to why the 717 has been significantly less prone to bird strike.
Hey Claret...
On the 146 were the bird strikes on the nose of the aircraft or did some fly into the back..
Have been told the 146 is the only aircraft you check both ends or the aeroplane for birdstrikes..
To add, On many aircraft the radar fires up on engine start.eg 737 NG A330etc in PWS mode so unless switched to off it will be running anyway