Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka has announced a concerning trend in aviation safety in Fiji, revealing that the country recorded 41 bird strike incidents in 2024, the highest number observed in recent years. This increase has raised alarms about aviation safety and the need for better wildlife management around airports.
In a speech delivered in Parliament, Gavoka noted that the 41 bird strikes primarily occurred at non-international airports, which is a significant rise from 24 cases in 2022 and 33 in 2023. He expressed that this escalating issue is a global concern, with 32 of the incidents involving foreign bird species, while the remaining incidents were attributed to local birds, including owls, mynas, and flying foxes.
Bird strikes occur when birds collide with aircraft, often during take-off or landing, and can lead to a range of complications, from minor damage to catastrophic failures. Citing a notable example, Gavoka referenced a tragic incident in December 2024, when J2 Air Flight 52216 in South Korea experienced dual engine failure due to a bird strike, resulting in 179 fatalities. This tragedy serves as a chilling reminder of the serious risks posed by bird strikes in aviation.
Further underscoring the need for stringent safety measures, Gavoka praised the quick response and professionalism of Fiji Airways pilots during a recent incident involving Flight FJ450, which encountered a bird strike while departing from Christchurch for Nadi on October 29, 2025. Their swift actions prevented a potentially severe situation, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew.
In response to the increasing number of bird strikes, Gavoka outlined proactive measures being implemented to reduce risks. These include enhanced bird hazard management programs at domestic airports, habitat modification to deter wildlife from nesting near runways, and improved coordination with environmental agencies. Drawing from prior initiatives, such as the formation of a National Wildlife Hazard Management committee focused on wildlife hazard management within a 13-kilometer radius of airports, these steps aim to strengthen aviation safety protocols.
The government’s commitment to tackling wildlife hazards reflects a broader initiative to enhance both aviation safety and public confidence in Fiji’s tourism industry. By involving local communities and educating them on effective wildlife management, authorities are paving the way for safer and more secure airport operations, showcasing Fiji’s resilience and dedication to creating a secure environment for visitors and residents alike.
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