AIM Text
Many airports advise pilots of other wildlife hazards caused by large animals on the runway through the Chart Supplement and the NOTAM system. Collisions of landing and departing aircraft and animals on the runway are increasing and are not limited to rural airports. These accidents have also occurred at several major airports. Pilots should exercise extreme caution when warned of the presence of wildlife on and in the vicinity of airports. If you observe deer or other large animals in close proximity to movement areas, advise the FSS, tower, or airport management.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 7-5-5.
Research Notes
AIM 7-5-5 covers Obstructions to Flight — operational considerations for airborne obstacles.
Categories of obstructions:
- Towers: Cell, broadcast, power line. Most are 1,500+ AGL where charted on sectional. Below 200 AGL not required to be marked.
- Power lines: Often crossing valleys at unmarked heights. Use marker balls on some lines.
- Wind turbines: 400-600 AGL. Often in lines or clusters. Common in areas with strong winds.
- Construction cranes: Temporary, may have NOTAMs.
- Met towers: Meteorological evaluation towers — often unmarked, 200 AGL.
Avoidance:
- Plan flight altitudes 500-1,000 ft above the highest charted obstacle
- Read sectionals carefully — obstruction symbols often near MEFs (Maximum Elevation Figures)
- For low-altitude operations (ag, helicopter), use detailed knowledge of obstacle locations
Reference: AIM 7-5-5; FAA-H-8083-25 Chapter 15.