Travis AFB Sustainability Study Report Final Background Report | Page 84
Bird / Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Relevancy Area
Birds and animals can present a significant hazard to military flight
operations. While fatal accidents resulting from bird or wildlife strikes have
been limited, impacts can be a safety concern and cause significant damage
to aircraft. At Travis AFB, 232 bird strikes occurred from 2007 to 2015,
causing over $870,000 in damage to aircraft.
Certain types of land uses attract birds and wildlife, such as open water
areas, standing water, and other natural areas. The location of Travis AFB
near several marshes, parks, golf courses, and landfill facilities create
potential bird / wildlife hazards. Additionally, agricultural activities and open
space surrounding Travis AFB can also attract birds and potential hazards.
A Bird / Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) program has already been
adopted by Travis AFB to reduce the impact of birds on aircraft operations.
Figure 3‐13 shows a five‐mile radius around the Travis AFB airport
operations area. Based on FAA statistical analysis, this is the primary area of
concern for BASH incidents to occur, and the primary focus of compatibility
planning for this issue.
Source: Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) Reduction Program, 2008
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