EASA SIB 2021-07: Bird Strike Risk Mitigation in Rotorcraft Operations

What to do

Affected stakeholders should consult local bird experts and authorities to identify bird hazards in operating areas and incorporate this information into safety management systems and flight planning. Rotorcraft manufacturers are advised to update flight manuals with guidance on operations in high bird concentration areas. Operators should train crews on bird strike avoidance, adjust flight altitudes and speeds accordingly, and conduct inspections after suspected bird strikes. No compliance deadlines are specified as the recommendations are informational.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) No. 2021-07 titled 'Bird Strike Risk Mitigation in Rotorcraft Operations' addresses the increasing risk of bird strikes involving civil rotorcraft in the European Union. The bulletin highlights that most EU civilian helicopters lack certification for bird strike resistance and provides recommendations for operators, manufacturers, and National Aviation Authorities to mitigate bird strike risks. It applies broadly to civil rotorcraft operations and does not mandate regulatory changes but offers guidance to improve safety.

What changed

This SIB introduces comprehensive recommendations for bird strike risk mitigation in rotorcraft operations, including consultation with bird experts, operational procedures, and rotorcraft flight manual revisions. It emphasizes safety management systems, pre-flight planning, in-flight procedures, and the use of bird strike protection technologies. The document does not impose mandatory requirements but encourages voluntary adoption of best practices.

Why it matters

The bulletin is important for aviation professionals because bird strikes pose a significant safety risk to rotorcraft occupants and can cause substantial aircraft damage. Operators and maintenance teams must understand and implement risk mitigation strategies to reduce the likelihood and severity of bird strikes. Compliance teams benefit from awareness of non-mandatory but strongly recommended procedures that enhance operational safety and reduce incident rates.