Uzbekistan's Tashkent International Airport has introduced a unique addition to its flight safety measures: trained falcons.

Alongside advanced equipment and ground personnel, these birds of prey help keep aircraft safe by scaring away other birds that could pose a risk during takeoff and landing, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

The airport’s dedicated falcon unit targets common local birds such as crows, pigeons, starlings, and finches. Falcons are deployed primarily during daylight hours, with flight schedules adjusted according to weather conditions, as extreme heat or rain prevents them from flying.

Training begins when the falcons are 4-5 months old and can last up to a year, depending on the species and temperament. Both males and females are used; currently, four female falcons are in service at Tashkent Airport.

On average, the birds serve for seven years, but with proper care, they can remain active for up to 16-17 years, playing a vital role in aviation safety, airport ornithologists said.

At present, the falcon program operates exclusively at Tashkent International Airport, adding a natural and effective layer of protection for flights.