Airport operations are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration and local policy. It is critical that iCare Ambulance personnel understand how to safely operate in this environment.

DRIVING INSIDE THE AIRPORT (GENERAL AVIATION):

When entering and operating in controlled space, vehicle operators shall observe the following:

• Upon passing through an access gate, the vehicle shall pause and wait for the gate to close to prevent unauthorized entrance of other vehicles.

• If more than one vehicle is entering or exiting at the same time, the last vehicle through the gate shall pause and wait for the gate to close before proceeding.

• Prior to driving onto the tarmac, the driver shall survey the area to assure their path of travel is clear of aircraft and other vehicles.

• After entering controlled space, vehicles should stay near buildings and/or follow designated travel routes.

• Emergency lights shall not be activated while on the ramp. The bright lights can blind pilots.

• Vehicles may only operate on the ramp area. Vehicles are prohibited on taxiways and runways unless escorted by Airport Operations personnel. If a vehicle is to operate on a taxiway or runway, the emergency lights must be activated.

• Vehicles may not cross a taxiway or runway unless escorted by Airport Operations personnel.

DRIVING INSIDE THE AIRPORT (COMMERCIAL AVIATION):

When entering and operating inside a Commercial Aviation airport, vehicle operators shall observe the following:

• Entry to controlled space must be granted by airport personnel.

• Upon approach to an entrance gate, the ambulance crew shall provide documentation to airport security personnel including the driver’s license of all crew members.

• Security personnel may inspect the vehicle.

• Airport or airline personnel must escort the vehicle at all times while in controlled space.

• Airport/airline personnel will instruct the driver where to park the vehicle.

• Personnel must remain inside the vehicle or in an area designated by airport/airline personnel.

• Personnel must comply with instructions of TSA and airport/airline personnel.

  
  

APPROACH TO AIRCRAFT:

The approach to an aircraft varies depending on the type of aircraft. In general, the following rules apply to all aircraft:

• Do not approach until the engines have come to a complete stop, or unless signaled to approach by a crewmember.

• NEVER backup to the aircraft.

• Vehicles must remain outside the circle of safety.

• No vehicle or equipment may ever contact the aircraft.

• The ambulance should be parked so that the side access door faces the aircraft for ease of equipment transfer.

PROP AIRCRAFT:

Approach to prop aircraft shall be done from the rear as the access door is behind the wings. The vehicle should be parked parallel to the wings at the rear of the aircraft.

JET AIRCRAFT:

Approach to jet aircraft shall be done from the front as the access door is forward of the wings. The vehicle should be parked parallel to the wings at the front of the aircraft.

ROTOR-WING AIRCRAFT:

Approach to rotor-wing shall always be done from the front of the aircraft and only after being signaled to do so by a crewmember. Personnel shall never operate near the rear of the aircraft.

MILITARY AIRCRAFT (C-130):

Approach from the rear of the aircraft. Maintain a 15 foot circle of safety around the aircraft.

CUSTOMS & BORDER PROTECTION (USCBP):

When a flight arrives from a foreign country, it must first be cleared by U.S. Customs & Border Protection. Do not approach these aircraft until indicated to do so by USCBP personnel.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:

Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Awareness:

• Always scan the area for loose debris that could be ingested by aircraft engines or cause damage to tires and rotors.

• Keep pockets zipped and equipment secure—no loose items.

• Never place gear on the ground where rotor wash or jet blast could scatter it.

Aircraft Tiedowns and Anchoring Points:

• Watch for tiedown rings embedded in concrete or asphalt, which are tripping and tipping hazards.

• Be especially cautious near hangars and helipads where tie-downs are common.

• Don’t place prams, equipment, or yourself in areas with potential trip points.

Jet and Rotor Wash:

• Keep a firm grip on all gear; wind from engines and rotors can knock over equipment or throw debris.

• Protect eyes and airway from dust or debris stirred up by aircraft.

Weather Conditions:

• Be mindful of slippery surfaces, strong winds, or low visibility that can compound hazards.

• Use extra caution in snow, rain, or icy conditions—slips and equipment instability are common.

Other:

• Aircraft have the right-of-way and pilots have a limited field of view.

• Do not follow behind aircraft as they taxi.

• If confronted by an aircraft, move as far to the side as possible to allow them to safely pass.

• Never drive between aircraft or an aircraft and a building with less than 50 feet of clearance.