Reducing Bird Strike Risks — AIM 7-5-2 Explained

AIM Text

The most serious strikes are those involving ingestion into an engine (turboprops and turbine jet engines) or windshield strikes. These strikes can result in emergency situations requiring prompt action by the pilot.
Engine ingestions may result in sudden loss of power or engine failure. Review engine out procedures, especially when operating from airports with known bird hazards or when operating near high bird concentrations.
Windshield strikes have resulted in pilots experiencing confusion, disorientation, loss of communications, and aircraft control problems. Pilots are encouraged to review their emergency procedures before flying in these areas.
When encountering birds en route, climb to avoid collision, because birds in flocks generally distribute themselves downward, with lead birds being at the highest altitude.
Avoid overflight of known areas of bird concentration and flying at low altitudes during bird migration. Charted wildlife refuges and other natural areas contain unusually high local concentration of birds which may create a hazard to aircraft.

Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 7-5-2.

AIM 7-5-2 covers Mountain Flying — the operational considerations for flying in mountainous terrain.

Key mountain flying hazards:

Density altitude: Reduced air density at high altitudes reduces engine power and aerodynamic performance. Density altitude can be 2,000-3,000+ feet higher than indicated altitude on warm days.
Mountain wave / lee turbulence: Strong winds over mountains create standing waves on the downwind side with severe up/downdrafts
Mountain weather: Conditions change rapidly. VFR conditions can deteriorate within minutes.
Terrain: Limited options for emergency landing. Narrow valleys reduce maneuvering room.

Best practices:

Fly mid-morning when winds are typically lighter
Cross ridges at 45° angle (not perpendicular)
Always have escape route to lower terrain
Maintain altitude well above terrain — at least 2,000 AGL in mountainous areas (more in winter or strong wind)
Avoid downdrafts on the lee side of ridges

Reference: FAA-H-8083-1A (Mountain Flying handbook material); AIM 7-5-2; AC 91-15 (Mountain Flying Safety).