Trouble on the ground mandates safety program

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  An increase in runway incursions mandates all airfield drivers here to receive a briefing in preventing further flightline mishaps by September. 

"It's been noted that in 2008 there has been an increase of 49 percent in runway incursion rates caused by vehicles or pedestrians," said Tech. Sgt. Don Alexander, 18th Operations Squadron acting airfield manager, "which means they put an aircrew or themselves in immediate danger." 

The sergeant goes on saying that Air Staff mandated the runway incursion briefing Air Force wide, so it's up to the airfield management at each wing, safety office, and air traffic control to filter this information down to anyone that drives on the airfield. 

Team Kadena currently has more than 6,000 drivers, including members from the sister services, and has one of the biggest programs in the Pacific Air Force. The airfield management created a rigorous program before the briefing was mandated. This program is known as the "controlled movement area class." After an individual completes the training at their unit, they attend the class for further training and perform in mock scenarios to apply what they have learned. 

"We hold a great program here," Sergeant Alexander said. "and the education is getting out to all the folks making sure they know what they are doing when they are out in the airfield." 

With many operations going on out in the flightline, Sergeant Alexander understands everyone has their own job to do, but the airfield must become second nature to them. 

To avoid any incursions, clarify any vehicle operations with the air traffic control tower personnel. They are constantly scanning the airfield to make sure all is clear and safe. 

"Before entering the airfield environment vehicle operators need to be aware of the runway in use and have good situational awareness of other vehicles and aircraft," said Staff Sgt. Monica Warren, 18th Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller. 

Sergeant Warren stressed that the tower controllers are responsible for multiple frequencies and if the tower does not respond immediately, wait patiently and the controller will answer your request as soon as possible. 

The rigorous training drivers receive here is vital to the safe operations on the airfield and should be taken seriously. So "make yourself the expert," said Capt. Dylan Quinn, 18th Wing Safety. 

"Familiarize yourself with the runway environment and comply with regulations governing the operation of your vehicle on the flightline," the captain said. 

For more information about the briefing, contact the airfield management at 634-0274 or 634-0475.