Xsight Systems Launches BirdWize™

40 percent of all bird strikes occur while the aircraft is on the ground; a new technology can help reduce these strikes.

Xsight Systems announced today the launch of a new runway detection enhancement to FODetect® that allows airports to more effectively address, track and reduce ground-level avian-related threats.

Bird strikes cost the aviation industry hundreds of millions of dollars a year. The Federal Aviation Administration receives more than 9,000 reports of bird strike incidents every year.

Over 40 percent of all avian-related incidents occur on the runway, and 44 percent of the most damaging bird strikes happen on the ground. BirdWize detects birds in real time, in inclement weather and in all light conditions – a major advantage since more than half of all bird activity on runways occurs during the nighttime hours.

BirdWize is an enhancement to FODetect, Xsight Systems’ automatic Foreign Object Debris detection solution. Xsight Systems technology utilizes a dual technology sensor, with millimeter-wave radar and electro-optic capabilities, along with advanced radar and image processing, to detect ground-level threats from FOD and birds as they occur. Xsight Systems has developed a unique capability which enables automatic bird recognition and provides an estimated size of the bird. RunWizesends real time detection alert to the airport’s wildlife team so threats are addressed.

“We are excited to launch this new product enhancement that will enable airport operators to better detect and monitor threats from ground-level birds on the runway,” says Mr. AlonNitzan, President and CEO of Xsight Systems. “40 percent of all bird-related incidents happen on the ground, and this solution provides airport personnel with a more effective way to track birds and their behavior patterns. With BirdWize, airport traffic can now run smoother, potential damage to aircrafts can be avoided, and passengers and crew are safer.”

The solution also features a comprehensive reporting system that documents all birds and other objects detected, which can be utilized to investigate bird behavior patterns and better conduct required Wildlife Hazard Assessments.

“This technology is an enhancement to our leading FODetect® solution and a critical asset to manage threats from ground-level birds and other objects on the runway,” added Nitzan. “For the first time, airport operators have the ability to detect and remove objects as they appear on runway surfaces in between flights – a huge advantage to improve runway safety and operations. The ability to analyze the size and timing of birds that land on the runway is also a significant addition, and it gives airports the potential to better understand bird behavior patterns and how they impact airport operations.”