Wildlife Hazard Management
Wildlife Hazard Management
The risk-based management of wildlife hazards to aviation.
EXPLORE RESOURCESWhat WHM Is
Wildlife hazard management (WHM) is the systematic process of identifying, assessing and reducing the risk that birds and other wildlife pose to aircraft operations, on and around aerodromes.
Why Wildlife Hazards Matter to Aviation
Wildlife strikes can damage aircraft, disrupt operations and, in serious cases, endanger lives. Effective management protects passengers, crews and operations as well as the wildlife itself.
A Risk-Based Approach
Good WHM is proportionate and evidence-based. It combines:
- Wildlife monitoring — understanding which species are present and how they behave.
- Habitat management — making airport environments less attractive to hazardous wildlife.
- Off-airport attractants — working with neighbours and planners on land uses that draw wildlife toward flight paths.
- Strike and near-miss data — reporting and analysing events so that decisions are grounded in evidence.
- Risk assessment — prioritising hazards by likelihood and consequence.
- Operational mitigation — practical, proportionate measures that reduce risk in operation.
Key WHM Areas
Wildlife Risk
Understanding the species and behaviours that create risk.
Habitat Management
Reducing the attractiveness of aerodromes to hazardous wildlife.
Wildlife Monitoring
Observing and recording wildlife activity.
Off-Airport Hazards
Managing attractants and land uses beyond the aerodrome boundary.
Data & Risk Assessment
Using strike data and assessment to prioritise action.
Operational Mitigation
Practical measures that reduce risk in daily operations.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
WBA is committed to protecting ecological systems, birds and wildlife alongside aviation safety. Safe skies and a healthy natural environment are complementary goals, and WBA promotes wildlife hazard management approaches that respect both.