Border Collie K-9 Protects Airport Runway

Wildlife Control K-9 Protects Airport Runway from Birds

Piper, a Border Collie K-9 from Michigan, proudly protects airport runways at Traverse City Airport (Cherry Capital Airport) by ensuring they are free from birds, which can become a threat to pilots during take-off and landing.

Piper's training included obedience and off lead control, as well as special training to get him accustomed to aircraft noise. He wears a ski mask to protect his eyes, boots to protect his paws, and MuttMuffs to protect his hearing. Working in ten-hour shifts, four days a week, Piper works very hard. He also gets plenty of breaks and lots of love.

In addition to his important runway tasks, he is in charge of boosting morale among employees, tenants and visitors - which he does exceedingly well. According to Best Travel Destination, "He is the only Wildlife Control K-9 on staff at an airport in Michigan and the airport believes one of less than ten in the United States. Nothing gets in the way of Piper giving 100 per cent effort on the job, but the black and white mutt sadly suffered a fracture on the job chasing a snowy owl on the taxiway in 2015." Since his injury, he has been reassigned as the airport's Chief Morale Officer, which entails getting lots of hugs and attention from airport staff and visitors.

His fans on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and other social media sites are hoping for a quick recovery and his return to the runway - protecting pilots, crew and passengers from potential dangers.