İncirlik airbase in Turkey adopts new airfield security system

ADANA - Anadolu Agency

DHA Photo

A U.S. airbase in southern Turkey is trying to solve the problem of birds colliding with its aircraft by installing a gas-powered “noise” system.

Collisions with birds are the leading cause of aircraft accidents at the base in the southern town of İncirlik.

The solar-powered mini-cannon system scares birds by creating explosions. The system, part of the “Birds Aircrafts Strikes Hazard” program, is designed for protecting wildlife around the airbase as well as securing the runways during take-offs and landings. “When the airfield is an uncertain and uncomfortable environment for birds and wildlife, we’ve done our job,” said Deputy Airfield Manager, Sgt. Dustin Troyer.

“The only thing we want flying on or off our airfield is our aircraft.” The system was fixed lately by Major David Mentch after a long process of work and saved the base $105,000 in repairs. “Not only did he save money, there’s no doubt the cannons he repaired make our airfield safer daily.” Col. Brent Bigger said.