CAAP eyes use of trained birds vs drones, bird strikes

MANILA, Philippines — The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is eyeing the use of trained birds to address illegal drone operations and bird strikes near airports.

During a hearing of the Senate committee on public services on Tuesday, Capt. Ian Michael del Castillo, head of the CAAP aerial works certification and inspection division, said that countries like Ireland, France and the Netherlands were using trained birds to neutralize unauthorized drones.

READ: Bird strikes at PH airports: Caap assures safety measures in place

He added that trained birds could also help divert other birds that may cause dangerous strikes near airports.

Asked if the CAAP had measures to protect airports from possible terrorist drone attacks, Del Castillo said there were none at the moment because the technology was too expensive, with a subscription-based antidrone service costing $1 million a month.

The CAAP, however, is currently studying other options, noting that as technology progresses, prices tend to go down. It is also collaborating with other government agencies to enhance drone safety measures.

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Under CAAP regulations, operating drones within the 10-kilometer aerodrome radius of an airport is strictly prohibited. Drones are also prohibited from flying above 120 meters. —PNA