The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has concluded plans to deploy multi-million equipment at airports across the country to mitigate the effects of bird strikes on airlines’ aircraft engines.
The new move is part of efforts by the airport authority to reduce complaints by airlines, whose aircraft engines are affected by migratory activities of birds during flight and on aircraft parked at the apron.
The devastating effects of bird strikes has occasioned many delayed or cancelled flights in the industry, causing huge financial losses to local airlines.
Disclosing this in an interview at the weekend, FAAN’s Director of Airport Operations, Captain Abdullahi Mahmood said the authority has embarked on new measures, including acquisition and deployment of birds detecting equipment to stem the negative impact of birds on aircraft engines.
Besides, he said the authority is working around other measures including, grass management and refuse disposal and other environmental interventions to reduce the losses airline operators continue to incur from the damage of their aircraft engines, rotors and blades from ingestion of birds.
Mahmood said the airport authority at the weekend took delivery of some bird control equipment from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), to combat the incidents of bird strikes at airports.
He said though the authority had started the procurement process for the equipment over a year ago, it had to wait for some time to get the equipment, because they could be delivered off the shelf.
Mahmood called on the benefitting airports to put the equipment to optimum use, so as to reduce the bashing the authority hitherto received from airlines, which aircraft are affected by the activities of migratory birds.
He said: “Airlines need to be patient with the airport authority as we are rolling out measures to mitigate against the hazards of birds around the airport. This is a global phenomenon, which is very critical, but we are addressing the issue by deploying the right equipment.
“Besides, we are also calibrating other measures / interventions to reduce the incidents around our airports by ensuring that the grass management programme is improved upon. As we get more equipment, this challenge will be reduced to the barest minimum. “
In 2021, the umbrella body of indigenous carriers: Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), said its members lost over $60 million to bird strikes.
The body said bird strikes led to many flights either being delayed or cancelled at airports across the country.
Industry data reveals that no fewer than 93 bird strike incidents occurred across Nigerian airports in the first half of 2022.
Out of the number, 54 such bird strike incidents happened at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos.
Meanwhile, the global birds control product market is expected to reach $18.22 billion in the next six years.
The market’s current value is $10 billion with projection for growth at 8.94 per cent in six years.
The Bird Control Products market is anticipated to undergo significant expansion from 2023 to 2031, fueled by technological progress, rising consumer demand, and strategic investments by industry leaders.
Experts say several key trends are shaping the Bird Control Products market’s growth trajectory.
The increasing focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly products, experts say, is prompting companies to adopt green manufacturing practices and develop responsible solutions.
Additionally, the demand for personalized and customizable products is influencing market dynamics, as consumers seek tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.
Companies in the sector, experts say, are focusing on innovation to meet the diverse needs of their customers, thereby driving competition and enhancing market offerings.
Another critical factor influencing the Bird Control Products market, experts say, is the changing regulatory landscape.
Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide, they noted, are implementing new policies and standards to ensure product safety and compliance.
These regulations, they further noted, are designed to protect consumers and maintain industry standards, but they also present challenges for market players.
They said: “Companies must navigate these complex regulatory requirements, which often necessitate significant investments in compliance and certification processes.
“The Bird Control Products market’s competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of numerous established players and new entrants.
This dynamic environment fosters innovation as companies strive to differentiate themselves and capture market share.
“Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions are common as businesses seek to expand their capabilities and geographical reach.
“Additionally, companies are investing heavily in research and development to create advanced products and solutions that cater to evolving consumer preferences and industry demands.
“This competitive pressure is driving continuous improvement and fostering a vibrant market ecosystem.
“Consumer trends and preferences are also playing a pivotal role in shaping the Bird Control Products market.
“There is a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products, prompting companies to adopt green manufacturing practices and develop environmentally responsible solutions.
“Additionally, consumers are increasingly looking for personalized and customizable products that cater to their specific needs.
“This shift in consumer behavior is driving companies to innovate and tailor their offerings to meet these demands, further propelling market growth.
Looking ahead, the Bird Control Products market is poised for continued expansion, driven by ongoing technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences.
“Companies that can effectively leverage these trends and navigate the regulatory landscape will be well-positioned to capitalize on the market’s growth opportunities.
“The focus on sustainability and personalization is expected to remain a key driver, shaping the future of the industry.
As the market evolves, stakeholders must remain agile and adaptable to succeed in this dynamic and competitive environment.”
