Pune International Airport at Lohegaon is grappling with a mounting bird hazard crisis, posing serious risks to flight safety. The situation escalated on June 5, 2025, when a Delhi-to-Pune flight was diverted to Surat just minutes before landing due to a sudden influx of birds near the runway. A similar incident on May 20 saw a Hyderabad-bound flight delayed by six hours as authorities worked to clear birds and address defense-related activities, highlighting the growing severity of the issue.
Experts attribute this surge in bird activity to rapid, unchecked urbanization around the airport. The rise of high-rise buildings, roadside eateries, and poor garbage disposal practices in areas like Vimannagar have turned the vicinity into a haven for scavenger birds such as crows, kites, and pigeons. These birds, often flying low during takeoff and landing phases, threaten aircraft safety, despite modern engines being designed to handle small bird strikes. Large flocks, however, can cause significant damage, making the problem a critical concern.
The airport’s shared airspace with the strategically vital Indian Air Force base amplifies the urgency. A former aviation official pointed out the existence of an Aerodrome Environment Committee to mitigate such risks, but its recent effectiveness remains questionable. Local civic leaders have acknowledged poor waste management as a key factor, with waste collection agencies promising daily cleanups and planning public awareness campaigns to prevent food waste disposal near the airport.
Wildlife experts warn that stagnant water, open sewage, and bird feeding within a two-kilometer radius are exacerbating the issue. Aviation and military veterans stress the need for timely pilot risk assessments and enhanced coordination between airport authorities and city administrators. In response, the Indian Air Force has deployed a specialized team to address bird hazards near the runway.
Environmental researchers advocate proactive measures, including bird-proof barriers on buildings, covering sewage channels, eliminating water sources, and banning bird feeding in the vicinity. While authorities continue monitoring, experts insist on a more systematic approach to prevent future incidents. The ongoing challenge underscores the delicate balance between urban development and aviation safety at this critical hub.
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