Details of the Collision

A departing flight ‍from Schiphol Airport experienced a collision ⁢with a fox on the runway.⁢ Passenger Mike Jonker‌ described⁢ the reaction onboard as remarkably calm. “Pathetic for the fox ⁢of course, but⁢ everyone understood the decision,” Jonker stated, adding with a touch of humor, “Landing twice and ⁤taking off for the same money.” The aircraft ‌safely⁤ returned to Schiphol.

Schiphol Airport’s Response

Schiphol​ Airport’s Bird Control department was ​promptly activated following the ⁣incident. A spokesperson for the airport emphasized that the condition of the animal post-collision ⁣was ‍not‍ a primary concern. Their​ focus remained on ensuring flight safety.

“With a ⁤collision with an animal,Bird control immediately takes‌ care of the removal⁤ of residues,inspecting the job⁢ for damage,and contributing to the fact‌ that air traffic can continue⁣ safely. The ⁢use ​of the Bird Control is crucial for ⁢flight safety,” the spokesperson ⁣explained.

Remarkable Incident, Says Wildlife Expert

corinne Kalisvaart, representing Fauna Haarlemmermeer, described ⁤the event as highly unusual. “I have never experienced⁤ this before,” she⁣ commented.⁢ “The ​foxes here are used to aircraft and the noise, and are thus ‍not afraid. That ⁣an animal is ​still ⁤hit, is amazing. Maybe it was a prey or something ‍was wrong with the ⁣animal.” Kalisvaart suggested the fox ⁢may⁢ have been distracted by prey or experiencing an unknown issue that contributed to the collision.

Context and Background

Wildlife⁣ strikes are⁣ a recognized, though relatively infrequent, hazard at airports worldwide. Airports employ various wildlife management​ techniques,including habitat modification,deterrents,and removal programs,to minimize ⁣these risks.⁣ the Haarlemmermeer region surrounding schiphol is known ‍for its diverse wildlife population, necessitating ongoing vigilance.

Trends⁤ in airport‍ wildlife management are⁤ increasingly focused on proactive, data-driven approaches to predict and prevent strikes, rather ⁤than ​solely reacting to incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens ‌when a plane hits an animal?

The ⁣immediate priority is⁢ the safety of the aircraft and passengers. The plane typically ⁤returns to the airport ⁤for inspection. Airport personnel, such as Bird Control, remove any remains and assess ‍the aircraft‍ for damage.

Is this a⁤ common occurrence at Schiphol Airport?

While ‌wildlife ​strikes ⁣do occur at‍ airports, ⁣this specific⁣ incident – a⁤ collision with a⁣ fox during takeoff ⁣-⁢ is considered remarkable, according to ⁤local⁤ wildlife experts.

What is the role of Bird Control at an airport?

Bird Control (and wildlife control more broadly) is crucial⁤ for flight safety. They manage wildlife populations around⁣ the ⁤airport, remove hazards from runways, and inspect aircraft ⁣for damage⁢ after strikes.

Why are foxes not typically afraid of aircraft noise?

Foxes in⁤ the ⁢Haarlemmermeer region have become⁢ accustomed to the constant noise⁢ of aircraft operations and are generally ⁤not‌ startled‌ by it. This familiarity ‍may have contributed to the ⁤incident.