What is the maximum sustainable bird strike weight?

The maximum sustainable bird strike weight is determined by the ability of aircraft to withstand impacts with birds at specific speeds. Generally, the larger the mass of the bird and the higher the speed of the aircraft, the more critical the impact becomes.

In aviation safety, the maximum sustainable bird strike weight is established to ensure that aircraft can continue to operate safely despite occasional bird impacts. The choice of 4 lbs at 270 knots indicated airspeed represents a balance between bird size and the dynamics of impact at that speed. Testing has shown that impacts of this weight at that specific velocity do not compromise the aircraft structure or system integrity, which is why this choice is deemed correct.

The other options propose higher weights or speeds that exceed established safety protocols or exceed the capabilities for structural integrity during a strike. The standards set in aviation safety regulations are formulated based on extensive research and testing of aircraft materials and their response to collisions with wildlife, ensuring that the selected maximum sustainable weight is both safe and feasible for operations.