If a vehicle operator encounters wildlife on the airside, what should they do?

When a vehicle operator encounters wildlife on the airside, the most appropriate action is to report the sighting and proceed with caution. This practice is vital for several reasons. First, wildlife can present significant hazards to both aircraft operations and vehicle safety, potentially leading to accidents or disruptions. By reporting the wildlife, the appropriate authorities, such as airport wildlife management teams, can assess the situation and take necessary action to manage or relocate the animals safely.

Proceeding with caution is equally important; it allows the operator to navigate the area carefully without escalating the situation or putting themselves, other airport personnel, or aircraft at risk. This approach minimizes the risk of wildlife strikes, which can have severe consequences for air safety.

Driving through the wildlife or ignoring the situation can lead to dangerous outcomes, both for the operators and the animals involved. Additionally, while calling animal control may seem like a reasonable option, it is generally not the immediate responsibility of vehicle operators in an airside environment; reporting the sighting to the appropriate airport authority is the standard protocol.