Why is FOD important in airfield operations?

FOD, or Foreign Object Debris, is crucial to airfield operations primarily because it can cause significant damage to aircraft and jeopardize the safety of both personnel and equipment. When foreign objects are present on the runway or taxiways, they pose a serious risk during aircraft takeoff and landing. Even small pieces of debris can lead to costly repairs or dangerous situations, such as engine failure or tire blowouts. Therefore, managing FOD is essential to prevent incidents that could endanger pilots, passengers, and ground crew, thereby maintaining overall flight safety.

In contrast, while maintaining the runway and ensuring efficient parking are important aspects of airfield operations, they do not capture the immediate safety implications of FOD. Additionally, increased traffic on the airfield might relate to operations but does not address the direct hazards posed by FOD. Thus, focusing on the potential damage and safety risks associated with foreign objects underscores the importance of FOD management in airfield environments.