In brief
Following a deadly air disaster, South Korea is set to employ drones to mitigate bird strikes at airports, along with other safety upgrades.
South Korea is stepping up its aviation safety game by introducing drones to combat bird strikes at airports starting in 2026. This initiative comes in the wake of the devastating Jeju Air Flight 2216 crash in December, which claimed 179 lives. At Muan International Airport, where the crash occurred, the government plans to replace traditional concrete guides with bird-friendly structures and enhance airport infrastructure.The tragic accident raised alarms as pilots reported a bird strike before the plane crash-landed and exploded. While the investigation is ongoing, feathers and blood were discovered in the engines, indicating the potential role of birds in the disaster. Authorities were previously warned about the avian hazards in the area, leading to this decisive drone deployment strategy.By the end of 2028, South Korea will have drones capable of identifying birds and dispensing repellents at all airports. Similar practices have been successfully implemented globally to safeguard against bird-related accidents, ensuring safer skies for travelers and crews alike.
