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Pittsburgh International Airport has allowed hunting on its land in the past, with a pilot program in 2013 permitting bow hunters to hunt deer on the airport's acreage. Hunters have to follow specific rules, such as removing and disposing of entrails properly, and information is provided on donating any meat that hunters do not plan to eat. The airport has also hosted town hall meetings to discuss current and proposed hunting regulations, with some calling for changes to the system to allow more people to hunt. While hunting is permitted at the airport and in certain parks in Pittsburgh, it is important to obtain the necessary permits and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and legal hunting experience. Additionally, there are hunting preserves near Pittsburgh, such as Stonebridge, that offer guided hunting experiences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hunting allowed | Yes |
| Year hunting allowed | 2013 |
| Type of hunting | Bow hunting |
| Animals to hunt | Deer |
| Hunting season | October 15 through January 11 |
| Hunting area | 800 acres |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Permit cost | Free for the first year |
| Difficulty in obtaining a permit | High |
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What You'll Learn
Hunting permits at Pittsburgh Airport
Bow hunting is a popular sport in Western Pennsylvania, and Pittsburgh International Airport has allowed deer hunting on its property since 2013. The Allegheny County Airport Authority created a pilot program to allow bow hunting on the land owned by the airport. The program was created in response to a request from two state officials on behalf of constituents who were interested in hunting on airport-owned acreage.
The airport holds a lottery to issue free, archery-only season permits for use on the land owned by the airport. In 2014, 157 hunters received permits, and the airport expected to issue about 100 permits that year. The application deadline was September 21, with a public lottery held on September 24. Hunters with permits must follow specific rules, including removing all entrails and disposing of them properly. The city also provides information on donating the meat if hunters do not plan to eat it.
Pittsburgh International Airport is not the only airport that allows bow hunting for deer on its property. St. Cloud Regional Airport in Minnesota issues seven permits for bow hunters to hunt whitetail deer on about 200 acres owned by the airport. Cecil Airport, a corporate, military, and general aviation airport operated by the Jacksonville Aviation Authority in Florida, also permits deer hunting to control wildlife.
While hunting is allowed on land owned by Pittsburgh International Airport, it appears that obtaining a permit to hunt on this land is difficult. One source mentions that hunting permits are elusive and that it is challenging to obtain one unless you know someone in county government or a county employee with some pull. Another source mentions that the airport authority and their friends often hunt on the airport property, and it is challenging to get permission unless you have connections.
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Hunting rules and regulations
Hunting on Pittsburgh Airport land has been allowed since 2013. The Allegheny County Airport Authority created a pilot program to allow bow hunting for deer on the airport's land. The program was created in response to a request from two state officials on behalf of constituents who expressed interest in hunting on airport-owned acreage.
Hunting at Pittsburgh Airport is subject to various rules and regulations that hunters must adhere to. Here are the key rules and regulations outlined:
- Permits and Licenses: Hunters are required to obtain a permit to hunt on airport property. The process for obtaining a permit can be challenging and may require connections with local government officials or employees. The permits are highly sought after, and there is often a lottery system in place to allocate them.
- Hunting Season: The hunting season for bow hunting at Pittsburgh Airport typically runs from mid-October through January. The specific dates may vary slightly from year to year, and hunters should refer to the official sources for the current season's dates.
- Hunting Area: The airport designates specific areas for hunting, encompassing over 800 acres of land. Hunters are expected to stay within these designated areas and respect "No Hunting" zones.
- Weapon Restrictions: Bow hunting is the only permitted method of hunting at Pittsburgh Airport. Hunters are allowed to use a bow and arrow or a crossbow for deer hunting. The use of firearms or other weapons is prohibited.
- Proper Disposal: Hunters are required to remove and properly dispose of all entrails from their harvested deer. The city provides information on how to donate the meat if hunters do not intend to consume it themselves.
- Safety Precautions: Hunters are advised to exercise good judgment, wear orange, and follow safety protocols while hunting.
- Hunting Limitations: Hunting is permitted only during specific days and times as outlined by the airport authorities and the Pennsylvania Game Commission seasons. Sunday hunting is prohibited on airport property.
- Hunting Ethics: Hunters are expected to act responsibly and adhere to fair-chase ethics. This includes respecting the wildlife, the environment, and other hunters.
- Conservation Considerations: The airport's hunting program is part of a wider wildlife management effort to control deer populations and avoid hazards from birds, deer, and other wildlife. Hunters are expected to comply with any additional regulations aimed at conserving the natural habitat.
- Local Regulations: Hunters must also comply with any local hunting regulations set by the Allegheny Land Trust (ALT). This includes adhering to the specific hunting seasons, weapon restrictions, and conservation areas designated by ALT.
These rules and regulations are essential to ensure the safety of hunters, airport personnel, and the general public, as well as to maintain a sustainable and ethical hunting program at Pittsburgh Airport. Hunters are responsible for familiarizing themselves with all applicable rules and regulations before participating in the airport's hunting program.
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Wildlife management at airports
Attracted by the availability of food, water, and shelter, wildlife can cause damage to aircraft and even lead to potential loss of life. Bird strikes, comprising 97% of reported strikes, have particularly gained the attention of airport officials in the United States and Canada, resulting in the formation of a Bird Strike Committee. Mammal strikes, although less frequent, can be extremely dangerous, especially collisions with large ungulates like deer.
Prior to implementing a wildlife management plan, a comprehensive risk assessment is essential. This involves surveying wildlife numbers, species, locations, and the times of their presence. The data collected serves as a baseline for evaluating the effectiveness of the management program. Airports with a high volume of operations involving large turbine-powered passenger aircraft typically require a formal wildlife control program. Conversely, smaller airports may manage with communication and warning procedures to alert pilots about unusual wildlife activity.
To address wildlife hazards, management strategies can vary from habitat manipulation and the introduction of predators to the lethal control of wildlife. Airports can also implement measures to reduce bird strikes, such as using special fertilizer products that induce mild sickness, discouraging birds from consuming edible plant matter or insects in the infields. Additionally, understanding the specific species causing issues enables operators to select targeted management practices.
The success of a wildlife management program relies on employing trained professionals who are knowledgeable about wildlife management and aware of the dynamic nature of the field. Continuous innovation brings new products and technologies to the forefront, requiring airport operators to adapt and strategize accordingly. By staying vigilant and proactive, airports can minimize the risks associated with wildlife and maintain safe aircraft operations.
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Hunting season dates
In 2013, Pittsburgh Airport announced a pilot program that would allow bow hunters to hunt deer on the acreage around Pittsburgh International. The bow-hunting season that year ran from October 15 through to January 11, 2014. Applications were open until September 22, 2013, via the airport's website.
If you are looking for a hunting experience closer to Pittsburgh Airport, the Stonebridge Hunting Preserve in Stoystown, Pennsylvania, is just 96 miles away, about an hour and a half's drive. Stonebridge offers affordable, professionally guided spot and stalk hunting experiences for both experienced and novice hunters. The Hunting Preserve is open year-round, seven days a week.
For hunting seasons in Pennsylvania, there are specific dates depending on the type of game and the hunting weapon. For example, for fall turkey hunting, only shotguns and archery gear are permitted. For deer hunting, there is no closed season except during the regular firearms deer season. For bear hunting, only one bear may be taken during the license year.
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Hunting safety
In 2013, Pittsburgh International Airport announced a pilot program that would allow bow hunters to hunt deer on the airport's land. The program was created in response to a request from two state officials on behalf of constituents who had expressed interest in hunting on airport-owned property.
Hunting can be a dangerous activity, and accidents can happen. Here are some tips to ensure safety during hunting:
- Hunters should be aware of their surroundings at all times. This includes knowing the location of other hunters in the area to avoid accidental shootings. Making noise by whistling, singing, or talking can help alert other hunters to your presence.
- Avoid permanent tree stands as they are more likely to deteriorate, which can lead to falls and serious injuries.
- Take breaks during strenuous hikes to prevent exhaustion and heart-related issues. Hunting can involve walking over rough terrain and dragging heavy carcasses, which can significantly increase heart rates and the risk of heart attacks, especially for middle-aged male hunters.
- Always wear safety gear, including eye and ear protection. Firearms can damage your hearing due to high-decibel sounds and discharge small particles that can harm your eyes.
- Consider wearing blaze orange instead of camouflage to make yourself visible to other hunters.
- Do not consume alcohol when hunting, as this can increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
- Learn basic first aid, such as hands-only CPR, in case of emergencies.
- Be courteous to other hunters and non-hunters sharing the land.
- Follow specific rules and regulations set by the hunting area, such as properly disposing of entrails or donating meat.
- Be mindful of the potential hazards to your eyes and ears when hunting with firearms.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Pittsburgh International Airport allows bow hunting on its land. However, you must obtain a permit to do so.
Permits are issued through a lottery system. Applications can be submitted online, and there is no charge for permits during the first year of the program.
Hunters must follow specific rules, including properly disposing of entrails and donating any meat they do not plan to eat. Only bow hunting is permitted, and hunters must follow the Pennsylvania Game Commission seasons and standards.
Deer are the only animals that can be hunted at Pittsburgh Airport.
