What is the protocol when a vehicle experiences a mechanical failure on the airside?

When a vehicle experiences a mechanical failure on the airside, the appropriate protocol is to move the vehicle to a safe area and notify ground control immediately. This response is crucial for several reasons.

First, moving the vehicle to a safe area minimizes the risk of it obstructing aircraft movement, which can pose significant safety hazards in a busy airport environment. Keeping the runway and taxiways clear allows for uninterrupted operations and reduces the potential for accidents.

Second, notifying ground control is essential to ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of the situation. Ground control can take necessary measures to manage air traffic and avoid any issues related to the disabled vehicle. They can also dispatch assistance if required, which helps in resolving the situation more efficiently.

Attempting repairs on the spot could lead to further complications, especially if tools or parts are required, or if the vehicle is still in a location that could pose a hazard. Leaving the vehicle in place without notifying anyone risks an incident, and abandoning the vehicle can create Security and safety issues in the airside environment. Thus, moving the vehicle to safety and informing ground control is the comprehensive and sensible approach in such situations.