Wings and Whiskers: How Dogs and Technology Keep Our Skies Safe
May 31, 2025, 10:04 am
Location: United States, District of Columbia, Washington
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1958
In the bustling world of aviation, safety is paramount. Two unlikely heroes are stepping up to the plate: border collies and advanced technology. Together, they form a unique alliance that keeps our skies safe and our airports running smoothly.
At West Virginia International Yeager Airport, Hercules and Ned, two border collies, are on a mission. Their job? To chase away wildlife that threatens aircraft. These dogs are not just pets; they are trained professionals. Hercules, the seasoned veteran, has been on the job for years. He knows the airfield like the back of his paw. Ned, the newcomer, is learning the ropes. Together, they patrol the airport, ensuring that birds and other wildlife stay clear of the runways.
The stakes are high. Bird strikes are a serious concern. In 2023 alone, nearly 19,000 incidents were reported at U.S. airports. These collisions can cause delays, damage aircraft, and even endanger lives. The infamous “Miracle on the Hudson” serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers. When a flock of Canada geese struck a plane shortly after takeoff, the pilot had to make an emergency landing in the river. Thankfully, everyone survived, but the incident highlighted the urgent need for wildlife management at airports.
Hercules and Ned are part of a growing trend. Airports across the country are employing dogs to mitigate wildlife risks. These canines are trained to herd, not harm. Their mere presence is enough to send birds flying. In the mind of a bird, a border collie is a predator, much like a coyote or fox. This instinctual fear helps keep the airfield clear.
But it’s not just about the dogs. The technology behind air traffic control is also evolving. Recent issues at Newark Airport revealed significant gaps in the system. A series of radar and communication outages led to hundreds of cancellations and delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been scrambling to address these problems. They are short-staffed, with about 3,000 fewer controllers than needed. The FAA is working to expedite hiring and training, hoping to bring more experienced controllers on board soon.
The FAA has also upgraded its software and telecommunications systems. A new fiber optic line is being installed to improve communication between Philadelphia and New York. This upgrade is crucial. In aviation, every second counts. Delays can cascade, affecting flights across the country. The FAA is determined to ensure that controllers have the tools they need to operate safely.
As Hercules and Ned patrol the airfield, they are not just chasing birds; they are part of a larger safety net. Their presence is a reminder that safety comes in many forms. While technology plays a vital role, the instincts of these dogs provide an additional layer of protection. They embody the spirit of teamwork, working alongside human controllers to keep the skies clear.
The partnership between dogs and technology is a testament to innovation. Airports are adapting to new challenges, finding creative solutions to age-old problems. Hercules and Ned are not just chasing birds; they are part of a movement that prioritizes safety and efficiency.
Inside the terminal, Hercules greets passengers with wagging tails and wet kisses. He brings joy to travelers, easing their anxiety before flights. For some, like Janet Spry, a simple interaction with a dog can make a world of difference. In a moment of sadness, Hercules provided comfort and companionship. This dual role of service and therapy is invaluable in the high-stress environment of an airport.
Meanwhile, the FAA is focused on improving air traffic control systems. They are learning from past mistakes, ensuring that controllers are prepared for any situation. Pilots are also being encouraged to brush up on their emergency procedures. In aviation, preparedness is key. The FAA is committed to making sure that both technology and human resources are up to the task.
As we look to the future, the collaboration between dogs and technology will likely continue to grow. Airports will need to adapt to changing circumstances, whether it’s wildlife management or air traffic control. Hercules and Ned are paving the way for a new era of airport safety. Their work is a reminder that sometimes, the best solutions come from the most unexpected places.
In conclusion, the skies are safer thanks to the combined efforts of border collies and advanced technology. Hercules and Ned are not just dogs; they are guardians of the airfield. Their instincts, paired with the FAA’s commitment to improving air traffic control, create a formidable team. Together, they ensure that our skies remain clear and our flights remain safe. As we soar into the future, let’s celebrate these unsung heroes—both furry and technological.
At West Virginia International Yeager Airport, Hercules and Ned, two border collies, are on a mission. Their job? To chase away wildlife that threatens aircraft. These dogs are not just pets; they are trained professionals. Hercules, the seasoned veteran, has been on the job for years. He knows the airfield like the back of his paw. Ned, the newcomer, is learning the ropes. Together, they patrol the airport, ensuring that birds and other wildlife stay clear of the runways.
The stakes are high. Bird strikes are a serious concern. In 2023 alone, nearly 19,000 incidents were reported at U.S. airports. These collisions can cause delays, damage aircraft, and even endanger lives. The infamous “Miracle on the Hudson” serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers. When a flock of Canada geese struck a plane shortly after takeoff, the pilot had to make an emergency landing in the river. Thankfully, everyone survived, but the incident highlighted the urgent need for wildlife management at airports.
Hercules and Ned are part of a growing trend. Airports across the country are employing dogs to mitigate wildlife risks. These canines are trained to herd, not harm. Their mere presence is enough to send birds flying. In the mind of a bird, a border collie is a predator, much like a coyote or fox. This instinctual fear helps keep the airfield clear.
But it’s not just about the dogs. The technology behind air traffic control is also evolving. Recent issues at Newark Airport revealed significant gaps in the system. A series of radar and communication outages led to hundreds of cancellations and delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been scrambling to address these problems. They are short-staffed, with about 3,000 fewer controllers than needed. The FAA is working to expedite hiring and training, hoping to bring more experienced controllers on board soon.
The FAA has also upgraded its software and telecommunications systems. A new fiber optic line is being installed to improve communication between Philadelphia and New York. This upgrade is crucial. In aviation, every second counts. Delays can cascade, affecting flights across the country. The FAA is determined to ensure that controllers have the tools they need to operate safely.
As Hercules and Ned patrol the airfield, they are not just chasing birds; they are part of a larger safety net. Their presence is a reminder that safety comes in many forms. While technology plays a vital role, the instincts of these dogs provide an additional layer of protection. They embody the spirit of teamwork, working alongside human controllers to keep the skies clear.
The partnership between dogs and technology is a testament to innovation. Airports are adapting to new challenges, finding creative solutions to age-old problems. Hercules and Ned are not just chasing birds; they are part of a movement that prioritizes safety and efficiency.
Inside the terminal, Hercules greets passengers with wagging tails and wet kisses. He brings joy to travelers, easing their anxiety before flights. For some, like Janet Spry, a simple interaction with a dog can make a world of difference. In a moment of sadness, Hercules provided comfort and companionship. This dual role of service and therapy is invaluable in the high-stress environment of an airport.
Meanwhile, the FAA is focused on improving air traffic control systems. They are learning from past mistakes, ensuring that controllers are prepared for any situation. Pilots are also being encouraged to brush up on their emergency procedures. In aviation, preparedness is key. The FAA is committed to making sure that both technology and human resources are up to the task.
As we look to the future, the collaboration between dogs and technology will likely continue to grow. Airports will need to adapt to changing circumstances, whether it’s wildlife management or air traffic control. Hercules and Ned are paving the way for a new era of airport safety. Their work is a reminder that sometimes, the best solutions come from the most unexpected places.
In conclusion, the skies are safer thanks to the combined efforts of border collies and advanced technology. Hercules and Ned are not just dogs; they are guardians of the airfield. Their instincts, paired with the FAA’s commitment to improving air traffic control, create a formidable team. Together, they ensure that our skies remain clear and our flights remain safe. As we soar into the future, let’s celebrate these unsung heroes—both furry and technological.