Foreign Object Damage (FOD) is a serious safety hazard for aircraft, and it is a constant concern for airport operators and aviation professionals. FOD can include anything from loose debris, rocks, and gravel to wildlife, tools, and even aircraft parts. FOD can cause severe damage to aircraft, including punctured tires, bent landing gear, and damaged engines. As a result, FOD foreign object damage poses a significant risk to passengers, crew, and ground personnel, and it can result in costly repairs and delays.

While airport operators take many steps to prevent FOD, such as regular inspections, training, and sweeping, one area that is often overlooked is the pavement itself. The asphalt and concrete pavements used in airports are additional sources of FOD that can be easily overlooked but can cause serious damage to aircraft.

Asphalt and concrete pavements in airports can create FOD foreign object damage in several ways. First, these surfaces can become damaged over time due to wear and tear, weathering, and other factors. As a result, small cracks and potholes can form, creating areas where loose debris can accumulate. These small pieces of debris, such as rocks, sand, and gravel, can be easily dislodged by aircraft during takeoff and landing, causing FOD.

Second, asphalt and concrete pavements can also create FOD foreign object damage by shedding small particles of their surface material. These particles can be small enough to be ingested by an aircraft's engines or cause damage to tires or other critical components.

Third, the materials used in pavement construction can also contribute to FOD. For example, asphalt contains small stones and gravel that can become loose over time and create FOD. Similarly, concrete contains small aggregate particles that can be dislodged by aircraft.

To prevent FOD foreign object damage caused by pavement, airport operators can take several measures. Regular pavement inspections and maintenance can help identify and repair cracks and potholes that can create FOD. Airport operators can also use sweeping equipment to remove loose debris from pavement surfaces, and they can apply coatings or sealants to prevent the shedding of surface material.

In conclusion, the asphalt and concrete pavements used in airports are additional sources of FOD that can be easily overlooked. These surfaces can create FOD through the accumulation of loose debris, the shedding of surface material, and the use of materials that contribute to FOD foreign object damage. As a result, airport operators must take measures to identify and prevent FOD caused by pavement to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and ground personnel, and to prevent costly repairs and delays.