A collision between an airplane and wildlife can cause serious damage to the plane and is usually fatal for the animal. An airport may take significant steps to prevent these events.
Synonym: Bird Aircraft Stike Hazard (BASH)
The risk is greatest during landing and take-off. At high altitudes the risk is minimal.
Sites of damage in the airplane:
(1) engine, especially if there are turbines
(2) canopy or window
(3) landing gear
The larger the animal the greater the chance for significant damage:
(1) geese
(2) crane
(3) penguin
(4) deer
(5) cow
The larger the number of animals the greater the danger.
Differential diagnosis:
(1) aircraft debris (following fuselage failure)
(2) large hail
(3) evil villains (if Hollywood is to be believed)
(4) pre-existing damage
(5) engine explosion
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