French technology firm ATERMES, in partnership with Pakistan’s Imperial Electric Company (IEC), has secured a landmark contract from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) to install an advanced AI-powered Bird Repelling System (BRS) at Lahore International Airport.
This will be Pakistan’s first fully integrated AI-enabled aviation bird safety system—designed to significantly reduce bird-strike risks through automated detection and deterrence.
SURICATE AI System to Enhance Real-Time Threat Detection
At the core of the project is SURICATE, ATERMES’ multi-sensor, AI-enabled surveillance platform. The system uses optronics, edge computing, and deep-learning algorithms to detect bird activity in real time. When a risk is identified, the system automatically activates laser and acoustic deterrence systems to clear the area.
Unlike traditional bird-repelling methods, this system only activates when needed—reducing noise pollution, conserving power, and minimizing environmental impact.
ATERMES Chairman Lionel Thomas highlighted the project as “a transformation of bird control into a predictive, autonomous, and eco-responsible process.”
Pakistan’s First Integrated AI Bird Safety System
The Lahore deployment marks a major milestone for Pakistan’s aviation sector, bringing the country in line with global trends toward autonomous, AI-supported airfield safety.
IEC Executive Director Sajid Jamal noted that this installation reflects Pakistan’s commitment to high-standard airport safety systems and will make Lahore the first airport in the region to adopt such advanced technology.
Strengthening France–Pakistan Technological Cooperation
The contract underscores growing technological cooperation between France and Pakistan.
Under the agreement:
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ATERMES will supply the AI detection systems and command-and-control technology.
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IEC will manage on-ground installation, system integration, and maintenance in Pakistan.
Both companies aim to deliver a scalable and sustainable solution that can be expanded to other airports across the country.
