All airports in South Korea are required to have radars and cameras that can identify birds

Following an air catastrophe that claimed 179 lives, South Korean officials have announced that all airports nationwide would be required to install radars and cameras that can identify birds.

Transportation and Infrastructure in Korea

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport stated in a statement that “at least one thermal imaging camera will be installed in every airport,” with the goal of putting the plan into action by 2026. Additionally, mobile acoustic devices will be used to address “medium- and large-sized birds.”

Boost aircraft reaction capabilities and early bird identification in remote areas

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport further stated that “all airports will have bird detection radars installed to improve aircraft response capabilities and early detection of distant birds.”

The size of the bird and its distance traveled are determined using radar. Air traffic controllers receive this information and use it to interact with pilots.

All airports in South Korea are required to have radars and cameras that can identify birds

The “establishment of legal basis” is another activity carried out by Korea Infrastructure and Transport

Additionally, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport is attempting to “establish a legal basis” for moving airports away from bird-attracting facilities like orchards and food waste treatment facilities. New facilities will be subject to additional distance limits at the same time.

Vice Minister of Civil Aviation Joo Jong-wan stated that “the top priority is to establish comprehensive aviation safety reform measures to prevent similar plane crashes from recurring.”