Flying safely: the wildlife strike laboratory is born

ENAC and the University of Turin have launched a pioneering project to combat the phenomenon of wildlife strikes, i.e. impacts between aircraft and wildlife. Thus was born the first Italian laboratory dedicated to the scientific identification of the vertebrates involved in these events, thanks to a 30-month agreement signed with the Department of Earth Sciences.

In 2024, there were 2,618 wildlife strikes at Italian airports, an increase of 8.36% compared to the previous year. Yet, more than half of the cases are not identified at the species level, limiting the effectiveness of preventive measures.

The new laboratory will analyze the samples within 30 days, combining morphology, microscopy and DNA barcoding. The model is inspired by the US Smithsonian Institution and will be able to accurately identify more than 90% of samples thanks to a collection of over 550 European species.

"It is a quantum leap for aviation safety", said Claudio Eminente, President of the BSCI and ENAC Central Director. The results will also contribute to international scientific research, with publications and participation in congresses.

The project is already operational and aims to strengthen security in the Italian skies through scientific innovation and institutional collaboration.