Quito International Airport, operated by Corporación Quiport, participated in October Big Day Ecuador 2024, a global birdwatching event. Fifteen enthusiasts were granted exclusive access to the airport’s facilities to admire the diversity of migratory birds resting at its rainwater reservoir.
What makes this participation unique is that, unlike most airports worldwide, which actively work to prevent birds from settling nearby due to the potential risks they pose to operations, Quito Airport has achieved a safe and sustainable coexistence with them. The airport’s rainwater reservoir, originally designed to manage water efficiently, has become a natural refuge for more than 140 bird species, approximately 30 of which are migratory.
READ: The customer view
This unusual achievement is the result of Corporación Quiport’s wildlife management program, which has allowed the airport to monitor potential risks to aviation operations while maintaining a balanced and safe coexistence between nature and its operations.
Gabriela Landázuri, EHS manager at Corporación Quiport, highlighted, “Initiatives like this are key to demonstrating the balance we’ve achieved between airport operations and the biodiversity that surrounds us. Participating in October Big Day reinforces our commitment to sustainability and the protection of migratory birds, which are a vital part of our strategy to combat climate change.”
Daniel Arias, eBird volunteer reviewer and leader of the group of birdwatchers, expressed his enthusiasm: “For our birdwatching community, it’s a privilege to access the airport. This initiative showcases Corporación Quiport’s excellent work in wildlife management and respect for birds. We recorded 45 species during the event, underscoring the reservoir’s importance for migratory and aquatic birds. We hope this opportunity continues and that Mariscal Sucre Airport solidifies its position as a regional pioneer, friendly to both birds and birdwatchers.”
READ: Etihad Cargo ramps up belly hold capacity with winter schedule
In June 2023, Corporación Quiport was awarded by Pacto Global Red Ecuador in the third edition of the Sustainable Development Best Practices Awards for its project “Migratory Birds and Climate Change.” This initiative, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land, reflects Corporación Quiport’s ongoing efforts to protect biodiversity and foster a balanced coexistence with wildlife.
