Protecting our skies this Eid-ul-Azha

Izmi Herlani Eid-ul-Azha is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant occasions celebrated across Pakistan and the Muslim world. The festival embodies the values of sacrifice, devotion, compassion and unity, bringing families and communities together in an atmosphere of faith and gratitude. As Pakistani citizens fulfill the religious obligation of Qurbani with great enthusiasm and reverence, it is equally important to remember that the spirit of Eid also emphasizes responsibility towards society, public welfare and the environment. Among the major public safety concerns associated with Eid-ul-Azha is the improper disposal of sacrificial animal waste, including offal, blood, hides and carcasses. While often overlooked, this issue creates serious environmental and health hazards and, importantly, poses a significant threat to aviation safety. The accumulation of exposed animal remains in open areas attracts large concentrations of birds such as kites, crows, vultures and stray scavengers. Increased bird activity near populated areas, airfields and flying corridors can create dangerous conditions for aircraft operations, particularly during takeoff and landing phases. For the Pakistan Air Force, which remains continuously engaged in safeguarding the aerial frontiers of the country, flight safety remains an uncompromising priority. PAF aircraft conduct operational missions, training sorties and readiness patrols around the clock to ensure the defence and security of Pakistan’s airspace. During Eid-ul-Azha, however, the sudden rise in bird populations around urban centres and flying zones substantially increases the risk of Bird Aircraft Strike Hazards, commonly referred to as bird strikes. A bird strike may appear insignificant to the general public, but in aviation operations it is considered one of the most serious flight safety hazards worldwide. Even a small bird colliding with an aircraft travelling at high speed can cause severe structural damage. In many