5.6.1 BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (OBBI)
Proximity to the sea provides a constant risk of bird-strike. Of greatest risk to aircraft are migratory birds, which are present in increased numbers during the winter.
Critical area infringements are exacerbated during high tide when birds search for roosts located on the airfield. Significant numbers of birds are attracted to any standing water, so extra caution should be exercised following periods of rain or when standing water is observed in the runway strip.
Any bird-strike event should be reported to ATC as soon as possible, as BIA employs a management strategy which is constantly updated.
5.6.2 BAHRAIN SAKHIR AIRBASE (OBKH) & ISA AIRBASE (OBBS)
5.6.2.1 Location and Habitat
Sakhir airbase is situated in the middle of Bahrain on the western side of the highest point on the island, Jabal Al Dukan, The habitant is essentially semi-desert with tufts of scrub grass and occasional small desert plants and occasional naturally occurring small trees of around 4 meters in height.
The airfield is boarded by small ridges to the west and to the east by rising ground towards the Jabal Al Dukan, To the east and west there is very little vegetation; however, on the runway approaches to the north and south, there are artificially planted large gardens. There are date palms and small and medium sized shrubs and trees up to 7 metres in height which can attract birds.
The climate is hot and dry in summer with temperatures normally reaching the mid forty degress centigrade during July and August, In winter it is normally mild and frost free, staying mainly dry with the occasional day of heavy rain which can cause some flooding.
As Bahrain is an island, the airbase is subject to sea influences and strong winds can be a frequent occurrence causing rising sand, dust and sand storms.
5.6.2.2 Wildlife
Wildlife activity around the base is assessed as light. Whilst, the occasional feral dog has been seen, the airfield is protected by fencing and there have been no incursions on the airfield since the fencing has been strengthened and repaired.
Bird activity is assessed as very light in summer and light in winter. Occasional flocks of gulls have been sighted on the airfield in winter, other bird activity is confined to small numbers of doves, plovers, lapwings and small game birds (Partridge) that are often seen throughout the year in small numbers of 2-6 individuals rather than folcks, Mainly is spring and autumn, small groups of ducks of around 3-5 in number have been observed crossing the airfield on an occasional basis.