Bird strikes occur when aircraft collide with birds or airborne animals, posing a risk to aviation safety. These incidents are common, particularly during takeoff, landing, or near airports, with the U.S. FAA estimating nearly 300,000 wildlife strikes between 1990 and 2022. While most bird strikes result in minimal damage and safe landings, severe cases can cause engine failure or structural damage, leading to rare but fatal accidents, such as the 2024 Jeju Air crash in South Korea, which killed 179 passengers. Airports and airlines employ measures like bird detection systems, long grass, and auditory repellents to mitigate risks, and aircraft are designed to withstand impacts with birds weighing up to four pounds.