What is the role of air traffic control in relation to vehicles operating airside?

The role of air traffic control is crucial in ensuring the safety and efficiency of airport operations. When it comes to vehicles operating airside, air traffic control provides instructions and maintains safe separation between aircraft and those vehicles. This is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring that both aircraft and vehicles can move safely in the busy airside environment.

Air traffic controllers monitor all movements in their designated airspace, which includes not only aircraft but also ground vehicles. They issue clearances and directions to vehicles to ensure they operate safely, particularly in areas where aircraft are taxiing, taking off, and landing. This coordination helps prevent any potential conflicts between aircraft and ground transportation, thus enhancing overall safety at the airport.

Other options, while they touch on related aspects of air traffic control's responsibilities, do not encapsulate the full scope of its role in maintaining safety between aircraft and ground vehicles.