What action should be taken if a driver sees a FOD on the runway?

When a driver sees foreign object debris (FOD) on the runway, the appropriate action is to report it to the control tower. This is crucial for maintaining airfield safety, as FOD poses significant risks to aircraft operations, including potential damage to engines, tires, and other components during takeoff and landing. By notifying the control tower, the driver ensures that the necessary measures can be taken to address the situation, such as issuing warnings to incoming aircraft and coordinating a safe removal of the debris.

Maintaining safety on the airfield is a collective responsibility, and communicating with the control tower allows trained personnel to assess the situation and respond appropriately. This action also helps prevent accidents and enhances overall operational effectiveness.

Other options, such as leaving the FOD unattended or attempting to remove it without authorization, can introduce further hazards. Ignoring the debris, even if perceived as small, is risky, as even minor objects can cause significant damage to aircraft. Therefore, reporting the FOD is the most responsible and safety-conscious choice.