Foreign Object Damage, or FOD, is an issue that can have serious consequences for the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations. FOD can occur from a variety of sources, including loose tools and metal parts that have fallen from a nearby vehicle. Foreign objects left on the runway can cause damage to aircraft engines and other components as they come in contact with them while taking off or landing. The impact of FOD can also be felt further down the line, increasing maintenance costs and resulting in flight delays due to repairs or replacements. As such, preventing Foreign Object Damage should be a priority for airports both large and small.
