At airports, everything revolves around safety and precision. Yet even small, seemingly harmless objects can pose serious risks to aircraft and their passengers. This issue is known as FOD, a common but often underestimated threat in aviation. In this blog, we explain what FOD is, why it’s dangerous, and what measures airports take to prevent it.

What is FOD?

FOD stand for Foreign Object Debris. It refers to any unwanted objects found on an airfield or runway that do not belong there. These can include small items like dirt, tools, loose screws, gravel, tire fragments, or even larger debris.

Why is FOD dangerous?

FOD can have serious consequences for the safety of aircraft and passengers. If debris is ingested by an engine or strikes part of the aircraft, it can lead to engine failure or other types of damage. Even small fragments can result in costly repairs, flight delays, and, in the worst case, accidents. In addition to safety risks, FOD also causes economic losses due to aircraft downtime and maintenance expenses.

How can FOD be prevented?

Preventing FOD starts with awareness and consistent maintenance. Airports typically implement strict procedures to keep airside areas clean and conduct regular inspections. These may include:

-          Routine sweeping and cleaning of runways and taxiways

-          Use of specializes equipment such as FOD sweepers and detection systems

-          Scheduled patrols to identify and remove debris

-          Strict tool and materials management procedures in operational zones

-          Staff training to recognize and mitigate FOD risks

Through proper maintenance, regular inspections, and the use of effective tools, airports can minimize the presence of FOD and ensure the safe and efficient operation of air traffic.