What immediate action should be taken if a vehicle breaks down on the airside?

When a vehicle breaks down on the airside, the immediate action should be to report the breakdown to the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and secure the vehicle. This response is critical for several reasons.

First and foremost, reporting the breakdown ensures that air traffic control is aware of the situation, which is vital for maintaining safety and operational efficiency on the airside. The AOCC can then take the necessary steps to alert other vehicles and planes to the potential hazard, helping to prevent accidents.

Securing the vehicle is equally important. It helps ensure that the broken-down vehicle does not pose a risk to other aircraft and vehicles operating in the area. This could involve placing warning devices such as cones or flares around the vehicle to alert others to its presence, or switching on hazard lights if it is safe to do so.

Trying to fix the vehicle can lead to further complications or hazards, especially if the breakdown occurs in a high-traffic area. Leaving the vehicle unattended can also pose a safety risk, as it may obstruct operations or create a hazard for other vehicles and aircraft. Waiting until traffic is clear is not a proactive step; the focus should be on ensuring that all relevant parties are informed and the area is safe.

In essence,