Bees Cause Flight Delay: A Buzzworthy Incident
The Buzz on the Wing
On Wednesday, a swarm of bees made headlines when they caused a three-hour delay for a Delta Airlines flight from Houston to Atlanta. The bees attached themselves to the winglet of the Airbus A320, prompting the airline to ground the plane until the swarm could be removed.
Passengers Tweet the Drama
Passengers watched the unfolding drama from the windows of George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Anjali Enjeti, a journalist on the flight, live-tweeted the entire incident, sharing photos and updates with her followers.
Safety First: Avoiding Bee-lated Takeoffs
Delta Airlines prioritized safety by refusing to board passengers while the bees remained on the plane. They initially attempted to call in a beekeeper, but the beekeeper was not permitted to touch the aircraft. The captain eventually decided to taxi the plane in an effort to dislodge the swarm.
The Bees Take Flight
When the plane’s engine was turned on, the bees willingly left their perch on the winglet. The plane was then moved to another gate, passengers boarded, and the flight took off without further incident.
Bee-Friendly Airports: A Growing Trend
The bee swarm incident highlights the growing awareness and efforts to support pollinators at airports. Airports across the country are implementing pollinator-friendly programs, such as restoring habitat and creating on-site apiaries.
Swarm Traps: A Clever Prevention Method
Pittsburgh International Airport has developed a unique solution to prevent bees from swarming on airport equipment: swarm traps. These traps provide a safe landing spot for bees, reducing the likelihood of them settling on planes or other structures.
The Importance of Pollinators: A Buzzing Issue
Bees play a crucial role as pollinators, supporting plant life and food production. Airports are recognizing their importance and taking steps to protect these beneficial insects.
Further Bee-lated Incidents: A Hive of Activity
In recent years, bee swarms have caused flight delays at various airports. In 2019, bees landed on the cockpit glass of an Air India plane, delaying takeoff until they were removed with water cannons. In 2018, a swarm of 20,000 bees delayed three Mango Airlines flights in South Africa.
Addressing the Swarm: Beekeepers to the Rescue
When bee swarms occur at airports, airports often call in beekeepers to remove the insects safely. Beekeepers use various methods, such as palm fronds or vacuum cleaners, to gently guide the bees away from the aircraft.
Pollinator Importance: A Buzzing Reminder
The bee swarm incident serves as a reminder of the importance of pollinators and the need to protect their populations. Airports are playing a role in supporting these essential insects by implementing pollinator-friendly practices and educating the public about their value.