Relocate Mwakirunge Dumpsite to Avoid Bird Strikes, KCAA Urges Mombasa County

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has demanded the immediate relocation of the Mwakirunge dumpsite in order to get rid of the birds that have been flocking around the Moi International Airport’s flight path in Mombasa.

This proceeded with an international aircraft flying above the Kenyan air space being forced to make an emergency landing at the same Moi International Airport after it suffered a bird strike.

According to the KCAA Director General, Gilbert Kibe, the dumpsite hosts a large number of birds that could lead to a catastrophe, even as the number of bird strikes in the country continues to be a concern to the aviation industry.

“When you have a dump site there, it attracts birds. When you have a bird that is flying overhead Mwakirunge, and there is an aircraft passing through, there is a danger of a bird strike,” Kibe said.

The Directors General also stated that bird strikes are a danger to aircraft and may result to aircraft complications and risk the lives of passengers.

Through a letter dated 5th October 2021, KCAA reiterated that the birds also tamper with vital navigation equipment used to guide planes landing and taking off from the airport.

However, Mombasa County Chief Officer, Environment, Ilhan Abass, has denied receiving any letter from KCAA but assured that the devolved unit is open to working with the authority.

KCAA’s Wildlife Control Department has put more than 10 dump sites under flight paths on its radar.

KCAA’s Wildlife Control Department is targeting ten more dumpsites under flight paths, which have led to a surge in bird population with the marabou stalks, crows and the sacred ibis.