South Korea to Implement Drone Technology for Bird Strike Prevention in Wake of Fatal Air Disaster

In response to the deadliest aviation disaster in its history, South Korea announces a comprehensive safety strategy including drone deployment at airports to mitigate bird strike risks.

As South Korea grapples with the aftermath of the Jeju Air Flight 2216 crash that resulted in 179 fatalities last December, the government is taking decisive steps to ensure aviation safety. In a crucial announcement, officials have unveiled plans to deploy drones at airports by mid-2026 to address the persistent issue of bird strikes, a hazard that recent events have underscored.

The crash occurred on December 29, as the pilots reported a bird strike during their approach to Muan International Airport, which is notably located near wetlands, a known habitat for various bird species. Following the incident, the government outlined an extensive overhaul of airport infrastructure and pilot safety regulations, aiming for completion by the year's end.

Investigators are still delving into the factors surrounding the crash, including substantial evidence of bird-related debris found in the plane's engines. It has been highlighted that improper safety structures, contributing to the severity of the collision with the localizer antenna, played a significant role in the tragic outcome. In response, the government will replace these susceptible concrete structures with frangible alternatives that minimize risk.

Looking ahead, the transport ministry aims to harness drone technology to proactively deter birds from airport perimeters. Initial models, scheduled for release in 2026, will focus on tracking avian presence, while more advanced versions that deploy bird repellents are set to be introduced across the nation by 2028. This innovative approach reflects growing trends worldwide, where drones have been effectively used to avert bird-related incidents in aviation.