Bear Alert at Akita Airport! A Forced Flight Redo Ensues

Environment | October 9, 2025
Akita Airport Bear intrusion Wildlife encounters Flight safety Japan wildlife

At Akita Airport in Japan, an unexpected visitor - a bear, made its way onto the airfield, causing unexpected disturbances. The unexpected wildlife incursion led the air traffic control to instruct an incoming flight to execute a go-around procedure, ensuring the safety of passengers and avoiding animal harm. The situation was promptly controlled and normal airport operations soon resumed.

In Japan, wildlife incursions into human territory are somewhat common due to the country's diverse ecosystems and increasing urbanization. Public safety is of utmost importance, and strict protocols are observed by authorities such as the air traffic control in this instance. At the same time, there's a high respect for animal life, which is why efforts are usually made to remove the creature without causing harm.

Similar to Japan, airports in the US or EU have wildlife management programs in place to prevent and respond to such wildlife intrusions. Wildlife hazard management is part of airport certification and taken very seriously. The actions taken are reliant on safety protocols but also consider humane treatment of the animals.

Information for Your Country

For those outside Japan, engaging with articles and resources on wildlife management and airfield safety could be informative. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, for instance, has resources on wildlife hazard management.