A Methodology for Classifying Attractive Sources Related to Airport Birdstrike by Using Geospatial Tools

Abstract

The urban and rural environment around airport grounds, being an attractive site for wildlife, is subjected to special attention in relation to the risk of wildlife collision with aircrafts according to specific aviation norms. Therefore, investigation into significant attractive sources in airport surroundings is needed to contribute to ‘wildlife strike’ monitoring in order to activate efficient countermeasures for limitation and control in view of aviation safety while at the same time increasing wildlife protection. On this basis, the study was focused on attractive sites related to the birdstrike hazard in airport surroundings. The methodology described in this paper investigated the spatial distribution characteristics of bird strike influencing factors with an open-access approach to data handling. Remote sensing imagery and open-source GIS tools were utilised to apply suitability analysis to the surfaces involved, such as airport obstacle limitation surfaces, protected areas, vegetation, and water bodies. The methodology was applied to a case study of the airport of Catania, Italy. The results showed that application of geospatial tools to suitability analysis allowed for the identification of areas that have the greatest influence on the birdstrike hazard for aviation. This approach has made it possible to analyse these areas from the point of view of airport safety and the monitoring of ecological areas and corridors of high naturalistic value in order to protect them, providing a contribution toward sustainable management of the birstrike issue.