What does FOD stand for?

FOD stands for Foreign Object Debris. This term is crucial in aviation safety as it refers to any object, debris, or substance that is not part of an aircraft and that could potentially pose a hazard to aircraft operations. This can include items such as loose equipment, tools, or litter that may be present on the airfield or runways.

Managing FOD is vital at airports like Vancouver International Airport because it can lead to serious safety incidents, including damage to aircraft engines or other critical components. Consequently, strict procedures are in place to monitor and eliminate FOD to ensure a safe operational environment for all airside activities. Knowledge of FOD is integral for anyone operating vehicles on the airport airside to maintain safety and security standards.