SubscribeIn an environment where due diligence really means something, otherwise flight safety could be compromised, it seems outdated that airside records of bird dispersal continue to be kept in hand-written log books.
Computers could do a better job, if only a recognised link existed between the dispersal system and a computer.
That link now exclusively exists on SCARECROW PREMIER 1500, the latest development of a product that has been almost a 'standard' for airside bird control since 1985.
Using a simple 'D' to 'D' lead, the computer may either use established, configurable, software such as Excel or a specially written, bespoke, one to record the date, time, airside location, period of use and bird species dispersed by PREMIER 1500.
Some UK Airports already have data capture systems in place, increasing the accuracy and availability of information, also prompting operational efficiency and airside data commonality between airfields.
And, by the way, talking about due diligence, all operators of vehicles, airside or not, have a duty to ensure that any electronic equipment - that includes bird dispersal products - are both CE Marked and E Marked.
E Marking is a mandatory Approvals that has been in full force since October 1st 2002 under Automotive Directive 95/54/EC. It is now the responsibility of everyone in Airport management, for example, to ensure that ONLY Equipment so Marked is installed in vehicles.
Cross interference between on board aircraft electronics and non- Conforming electronic items in an airside vehicle - radios, telephones, on board computers or bird dispersal systems, could potentially cause disaster.
One important aspect of commonality of birdstrike capture is that it will provide a positive influence in decreasing the communication gap on this subject between airports and the airlines that use them.
That can only be 'good news'.
