Pilots: Fly Seabird Safe!

Birdstrikes: The California coast is home to more than 600,000 seabirds. During the seabird breeding season (January-August) there is an increased chance of birdstrike along the coast. Pilots should avoid flying at low altitudes (less than 1,000 feet AGL) to reduce their risk of bird strike and to avoid disturbing sensitive wildlife. For up to date information on wildlife strikes, visit the National Wildlife Strike On-line Database. Further details can be found through theBird Strike Committee USA.

Check out these bird strike statistics!

Bird and other wildlife strikes cost USA civil aviation over $650 million/year, 1990-2011.
92% of all bird strikes occur at or below 3,000' AGL.
Nearly 1,000 bird strikes occur in California, each year.

Direct flyovers or multiple passes where sensitive wildlife are located can harm both pilots and wildlife. Areas along the California coast require you to remain 1,000' AGL. These overflight regulations are required by NOAA and pertain to all aircraft, including rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft.

Check out our page on Laws and Regulations.

Help protect California's coastal wildlife!