To ensure the safety of Indian Air Force aircraft during Republic Day 2026 rehearsals, the Delhi government will procure over 1,275 kg of boneless chicken to divert birds away from flight paths. The unusual measure aims to reduce the risk of bird strikes, particularly from black kites and hawks, that can damage jet engines and force emergency landings.
Bird strikes are a serious hazard during low-altitude air shows. To mitigate this, the Forest Department will scatter small pieces of chicken at 20 designated locations across the capital, including the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Mandi House, Delhi Gate, and Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences. These sites are chosen annually based on bird movement patterns and are known kite hotspots.
The meat-scattering exercise will run daily from January 15 to January 26. Between 200 and 400 kg of meat will be used each day, peaking at 250 kg on January 22, with about 20 kg allocated per location. The strategy keeps birds feeding at lower altitudes and away from the air show corridor.
Previously, buffalo meat was used for this purpose. This year, boneless chicken has been selected to balance effectiveness with operational considerations. Forest officials say the practice has proven effective in reducing bird activity along flight routes and ensuring smooth, incident-free Republic Day celebrations.
