By JENNA MITCHELL
Staff Writer
There have been 54 incidents of animals being “ingested” by plane engines since Jan.1 of this year. “Bird strikes” accounted for 43 of those cases. 11 hares living in the grassy areas near the runways accounted for the rest. Hares were considered more dangerous than bird strikes since the remains of the fluffy animals could spread over a large area of the engine. Airport officials said they have taken measures to uphold high safety standards and prevent aviation risks.