1 / 10An Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. While initial speculation suggested a bird strike, the DGCA investigation ruled out this possibility, finding no bird remains.2 / 10A bird strike is when a plane hits a bird during takeoff and landing at any airport. The risk of bird strike is highest during takeoff, landing and when flying from low altitudes.3 / 10Even a small object can be dangerous if a plane flying at a speed of about 350 km per hour hits it. Bird strike can have serious consequences. Often, a bird hitting the cockpit can break the windshield. This can injure the pilot.4 / 10If a bird gets into the engine, it can damage the turbine blades. It can cause a fire or even shut down the engine completely. Due to this, there is a risk of the plane crashing in a few seconds. DCGA and airlines have made many safety rules to avoid this.5 / 10Airlines around the world test their aircraft before certification. This test is done to ensure their quality in a bird strike situation. During this test, dead chickens are shot into the engine and other important parts to see what happens to the plane in such a situation. It may sound strange but it is scientifically accepted.6 / 10A special device is used to use this test. Which is called a chicken gun. It is a powerful air cannon. It is used to measure the effect of a bird strike at high speed. It is used to see if the plane can withstand such a situation during real flight.7 / 10This test reviews how strong the windshield and engine of the plane are. Usually, this test is done in a controlled laboratory. Engineers shoot a dead chicken at high speed. This is recorded on a high-speed camera. The footage is then examined. This shows the extent of the damage.8 / 10Real chickens are used in the test because their weight and size are similar to those that hit an aircraft in flight. Bird strike tests are a special procedure in obtaining permission to fly an aircraft. In this test, a strong frame is placed on important parts such as the engine, cockpit windshield, wings.9 / 10Usually a dead chicken, an artificial bird or a gelatin-based ball is used for this test, but most often a chicken is used. A special air gun or cannon-like device is installed. 10 / 10This device pushes the object forward at a speed equal to the speed of the aircraft. This speed is about 300 to 500 kilometers per hour.