Foreign Object Debris (FOD): A Hidden Threat to Aircraft Operations

Small items, massive consequences. At first glance, a stray bolt, a forgotten plastic bottle, or a pebble on a runway might not seem like much. But on an airfield, these seemingly insignificant objects are known as Foreign Object Debris (FOD)—and they pose one of the most serious threats to aircraft safety worldwide.

What Is Foreign Object Debris (FOD) and Why Does It Matter?

Foreign Object Debris (FOD) refers to any object found in an inappropriate location on an airport’s air operations area (AOA) that can damage aircraft or injure personnel. Common examples include:

• Loose screws or nuts left behind during aircraft maintenance

• Debris from crumbling pavements like pebbles or rubber chunks

• Forgotten maintenance tools or personal items

• Trash such as plastic wrappers, cans, or luggage tags

• Wildlife remains or plant fragments blown across the runway

  
  

These items can be sucked into jet engines or become lodged in landing gear mechanisms, leading to catastrophic engine failures, tire blowouts, or costly maintenance issues. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), FOD causes an estimated $22.7 billion in damage annually, making it a financial threat as well as a safety hazard​.

The Real-World Cost of FOD

Major airports such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD) individually incur over $50 million in FOD-related damages each year​. These costs stem not only from physical repairs but also from delays, flight cancellations, missed connections, and indirect effects such as reputational damage.

And it's not just commercial aviation—military operations also suffer. A standard FOD walk at a military airfield can cost over $270,000 annually in manpower alone, not to mention the productivity losses and potential aircraft damage​.

How Is FOD Detected and Removed?

Manual Inspections

At many airports, teams of trained personnel drive or walk along the runway to visually inspect and remove debris. This process can take 10–20 minutes per mile, depending on the thoroughness and complexity of the inspection​.

Automated and AI-Driven Solutions

Modern airports increasingly deploy automated detection systems—like radar, infrared, and high-resolution cameras—to identify FOD in real time. AI-enhanced systems can analyze FOD type, location, and potential threat level, drastically reducing false alarms and enabling rapid risk assessment​​.

Emergency Response

If hazardous FOD is detected, operations can halt immediately, with specialized crews dispatched to clear the area in as little as 5 minutes. This fast response capability is critical for preventing damage during busy flight schedules​.

The Role of FAA and ICAO in FOD Management

Regulatory Framework

The FAA’s Advisory Circular AC 150/5210-24A outlines a comprehensive FOD management program that includes prevention, detection, removal, and evaluation​. Compliance is strongly encouraged and mandatory for airports receiving federal funding.

In parallel, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) mandates that all aerodrome operators implement a FOD control program tailored to local risk conditions. This includes ensuring that all staff working in movement areas are trained in FOD prevention practices​.

Safety Inspections

Under FAA Part 139 regulations, certificated airports are required to conduct daily self-inspections, including checks for FOD on paved areas and movement zones​. These inspections are vital for maintaining operational safety and meeting federal compliance standards.

Airtrek: The Future of FOD Management

Wondering how to stay ahead of the curve in FOD prevention? That’s where Airtrek comes in. Our automated ground-cleaning solutions are engineered to revolutionize how airports tackle FOD.

What sets Airtrek apart?

• AI-Powered Detection: Uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to identify FOD types in real-time

• Autonomous Operations: Patrol airfields 24/7, detecting and removing FOD without disrupting operations

• Data-Driven Insights: Generate reports that help airports identify trends and proactively manage high-risk areas

  
  

By adopting Airtrek, airports can reduce manual labor, minimize operational downtime, and enhance safety across all airside areas.

Safety First, Always

FOD may be small, but its impacts are anything but. From massive financial losses to fatal accidents, the consequences of foreign object debris are severe and far-reaching. With regulatory support from the FAA and ICAO and technological innovations like Airtrek, the aviation industry is now better equipped than ever to manage this critical threat.

Stay tuned for more updates on how Airtrek is driving the future of airfield safety—one sweep at a time.