Bird Ingestion Standards

WASHINGTON (CN) - There is a "current large flocking bird threat" to turbine aircraft engines. This is a direct quote from the Federal Aviation Administration. The population of birds over 2.5 pounds is increasing, and turbine aircraft engine certification requirements had not specifically taken this into account.

So, the FAA has adopted new bird ingestion standards for the engines, which means the engines must pass certain tests before being certified to fly. To test the engine, the plane manufacturer must choose a day with average conditions, turn on the engine, and chuck birds of various sizes at the most obvious front blade. Just after the assault, the engine must retain at least 50 percent of its ability to operate. The FAA allows approved projectiles instead of birds. Click here for details and other new regulations.

Read the Top 8

Sign up for the Top 8, a roundup of the day's top stories delivered directly to your inbox Monday through Friday.

Email *

Submit