Presentation by:
Johnson Inyang
INTRODUCTION
Driving in airside areas requires different knowledge and skills compared to public roads. Poor discipline and lack of competence by airside drivers pose a significant hazard to aircraft operations. It is crucial for all personnel operating at the airside to understand the distinction between the Apron and the Manoeuvring Area. The double yellow lines divide the Apron, where vehicles may move without ATC permission, from the Manoeuvring Area, where all movements are subject to ATC permission.
Definition of Key Words
Airside This is a restricted area of an airport where Vehicles, Humans and other Ground Support Equipment are given permits to operate on. It is also a manoeuvring space for aircraft to move about. Its components includes but not limited to, Apron, Taxi way, Navigational aids and the Runway.
Vehicular Hazards These are incidents caused by Airside Vehicle Drivers and Ground Support Equipment Operators due to poor discipline, incompetency, unprofessional work habit and ignorant of the airside driving principles. Hazards may include runway incursions, collision with aircrafts, collision with vehicles, collision with passengers or airport personnel (i.e Airside Users), collision with airfield lightings, striking of buildings, water hydrants and fixed power units, etc.
Preventive Measures Prevention measures means any safety measures or conditions put in place to abate an incident, to prevent, minimize, or mitigate loss or damages, or to effect environmental clean-up based on the provisions of Annex 19 (Safety Management)
VEHICLES INVOLVED IN AIRSIDE HAZARDS
Ground Vehicles
- Airside Service Vans
- Push back tractors
- Passengers boarding staircases
- Fire Tenders (RFFS operational vehicle)
- Ground handling equipment
- Catering Service Vehicles
- Water truck
- Ambulances
- Aircraft de-icing Vehicles
- Mobile sources of electricity
- Lavatory service Vehicles
Air Vehicles
- Aeroplanes
- Helicopters
COMMON FACTORS OF AIRSIDE VEHICULAR HAZARDS
- Speed exceeding airside stipulated speed limits
- Visibility level of the airside which includes fogs, heavy down pour, very high winds
- Choked night operations
- Human factors such as constrained work pressure and distracted driving
- Fatigue on the driver and equipment operator
- Sleeplessness and restlessness
- Reckless driving
- Drugs and alcohol influence (abuses)
- Foreign Object Debris (FOD)
- Environmental factors
- Crowded and congested space
Car accidents at airports are often caused by distracted driving and fatigue among drivers. Distractions such as phone usage, eating, or conversations with passengers can divert attention from the road. These factors increase the risk of accidents in areas with constant flow of passengers, baggage handlers, and airport vehicles.
Fatigue, reckless driving, and time constraints are also significant factors contributing to car accidents at airports (airside). Drivers who work long hours and have irregular shift patterns are more likely to be fatigued while driving. Fatigue can impair judgment, slow reaction times, and increase the likelihood of accidents. Reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and aggressive maneuvering pose a significant risk within the airport premises. Some drivers may prioritize speed over safety due to time constraints and tight schedules.
Airports can be congested during peak hours, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or strong winds, can also contribute to car accidents at airports by reducing visibility and affecting vehicle control.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST AIRSIDE VEHICULAR HAZARDS
Preventing airside vehicular accidents at airports require a multi-faceted approach that involves proactive measures from both individuals and airport authorities. By implementing the following preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer airport environment for all:
- Enhanced Driver Training and Awareness Programs
Comprehensive driver training programs should be a priority for all individuals operating vehicles within the airport premises, especially at the airside. These programs should cover topics such as defensive driving, hazard perception, and awareness of airport-specific challenges. Regular refresher courses and awareness campaigns help drivers stay vigilant and informed about potential risks.
- Implementation of Advanced Safety Technologies
Technological advancements have revolutionized vehicle safety, and airports should leverage these innovations to enhance safety on their premises. Installing advanced safety technologies such as collision warning systems, automatic braking, and blind-spot monitoring can help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions.
- Advanced Surface Movement Guidance Control System (A-SMGCS)
Several airports in the Western Countries and Asia have implemented the Advanced Surface Movement Guidance Control System (A-SMGCS), which allows Air Traffic Controllers to accurately track aircrafts and vehicles on the airport surface in all visibility conditions. Vehicles that operate on runways and taxiways at A-SMGCS equipped airports must be fitted with vehicle locators, also known as “VeeLo,” which transmit vehicle information to the A-SMGCS system. These transmitters are typically installed to switch on and off through the vehicle ignition switch and only transmits to ATC when the vehicle is on an area of ATC interest, such as taxiways and runways. Drivers are not required to interact with the VeeLo unless it has a manual ON/OFF switch, but they may need to have it repaired if it is not operating correctly.
- Clear, Visible Signage and Road Markings
Proper signage and road markings play a crucial role in guiding drivers and promoting safe navigation within airports. Clear and visible signs indicating speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and designated parking areas should be strategically placed to minimize confusion and improve traffic flow. Regular maintenance of signage and road markings is essential to ensure their effectiveness.
- Robust Traffic Management Systems
Efficient traffic management systems are vital to prevent congestion and reduce the risk of car accidents at airports. Airport authorities should invest in advanced traffic monitoring technologies, real-time data analysis, and intelligent traffic signal systems to optimize traffic flow and minimize the chances of collisions.
- Adequate Lighting and Maintenance of Road Surfaces
Proper lighting and well-maintained road surfaces are crucial for ensuring optimal visibility and safe driving conditions at airports. Adequate lighting should be provided in parking lots, ramps, and other high-traffic areas. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces are essential to prevent accidents caused by road hazards.
GENERAL AIRPORT DRIVING RULES
- Inspect your vehicle before driving.
- Drive only where your permit allows.
- Give way to aircrafts, including aircrafts under tow at all times.
- When crossing a live taxiway, always allow a 200 metres distance before crossing at the back of a taxiing aircraft.
- Be aware of aircraft pushing back/coming on to stand.
- On apron roads, always give way to vehicles coming off the manoeuvring area.
- Display the vehicle flashing obstruction light(s).
- Use dipped headlights at night and in reduced visibility.
- Observe the relevant Movement Area speed limits at all times.
- Observe and comply with low headroom signs
- All passengers must be seated.
- Ensure that all roads are safe and secure.
- Doors and shutters must be closed when operating at the airside.
- Personnel must remain entirely inside the vehicle.
- Observe reversing procedures. Use a banksman. (Vehicle Supervisor)
- Do not leave vehicles unattended with engines running (unless there is a justifiable need for the engine to be running).
- Observe all parking restrictions. Do not park on Inter-Stand Clear ways or hatched area.
- Do not drive across aircraft stands unless involved in the turnaround on that stand.
- Do not park underneath an aircraft wing unless you have an operational requirement to do so (fuelers, engineers).
- Never approach an aircraft until it has stopped, the wheels have been chocked, the anti-collision light is out and the engines are run down.
- Report all vehicle unserviceability without delay.
CONCLUSION
Car accidents at airports are a major safety concern for travelers, airport employees, and other airport users. To address this, it is important to identify common causes of accidents and take preventative measures. Effective strategies include improved driver training, advanced safety technologies, clear signage, efficient traffic management systems, and proper maintenance of road surfaces. By implementing these measures, the risks associated with vehicular hazards at airports can be significantly reduced.
REFERENCES
- Runway Safety Handbook 1st Edition, 2014 Airports Council International (ACI, 2014)
- Harron Saddique, 2018, A man died after a collision between two vehicles at Heathrow Airport, UK.
- com, 2007, Reckless Driving of Taxiing Service Vehicle
- Mendez & Sanchez APC, 2013, mendezsanchezlaw.com/post/car-accidents-at-airports-ensuring-safety-and-preventing-mishaps.
- Emirates 24/7, 2016, Two Auto Crashed at Ruyadh Airport, Saudi Arabia
- Oyetunji A., 2021, Dana Plane, Speedy Car Near Collision on Lagos Taxi way, MMA II, Punch News Paper, 5th January, 2022.
- Apron Driver Training Handbook 1, 2020, Safety And Awareness Driving On The Airfield.
