BACKGROUND

United States airport aprons and ramps are complex and dynamic areas from both operational and safety perspectives. The FAA defines aprons and/or ramps as, “areas on an airport intended to accommodate aircraft for the purpose of parking, loading and unloading passengers or cargo, refueling, or maintenance.” An array of vehicle types and individuals that work on the apron and ramp (i.e. users) access these areas, and because operational, safety, and individual roles and responsibilities vary from airport to airport most airports have unique apron and ramp safety programs.

OBJECTIVE & AUDIENCE

The objective of this synthesis is to collect current airport practices for apron and ramp safety programs. The audience for this synthesis is airport, airline, and tenant operators who oversee or work on the apron and ramp.

STATUS The first draft is expected April 2025