BIRD-STRIKE RISK AND AIRPORT ZONING REGULATIONS

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BANGLADESH AND INDIA

Abstract

Bird strikes pose a persistent threat to aviation safety worldwide, particularly in rapidly developing nations where urban expansion encroaches upon airport vicinities. This paper undertakes a comparative legal analysis of bird-strike risk management and airport zoning laws in Bangladesh and India, two South Asian countries experiencing significant growth in air traffic and urbanization. The study critically examines the legislative frameworks, institutional practices, and enforcement mechanisms in both jurisdictions to assess their effectiveness in mitigating bird-strike incidents. This article highlights regulatory frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and the impact of incompatible land use practices—such as waste dumping and slaughterhouses—in the vicinity of airports. The paper further analyzes relevant international standards, including ICAO Annex 14, and evaluates how both countries have integrated or deviated from these norms. While India has made notable strides through centralized aviation safety guidelines and state-level zoning enforcement, Bangladesh faces challenges due to fragmented regulatory oversight and limited coordination among urban, environmental, and aviation authorities. The research concludes with policy recommendations aimed at enhancing inter-agency collaboration, improving land-use planning, and strengthening legal accountability in both countries. The findings provide insightful information for policymakers, and aviation stakeholders who are working to improve air safety in countries in the global south by implementing strong environmental and legal governance.