How should vehicle operators respond to wildlife sightings on the airside?

The appropriate response for vehicle operators when they encounter wildlife on the airside is to report the sighting immediately to airport operations. This is critical for ensuring the safety of flight operations and the overall safety of passengers and staff at the airport. Wildlife can pose significant hazards to aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing phases. By promptly notifying airport operations, trained personnel can assess the situation and take necessary actions, such as implementing mitigation measures or contacting wildlife control services, to minimize risks.

Chasing wildlife away can be dangerous and counterproductive, as it may lead to unpredictable movement and exacerbate the situation. Similarly, ignoring sightings can lead to severe safety threats, as the presence of wildlife can go unnoticed and lead to accidents. Taking photos for documentation, while it might seem beneficial for records, does not address the immediate safety concerns and should not be prioritized over reporting the sighting. The primary objective in such situations is to maintain a safe operating environment by involving the proper authorities to manage and address wildlife hazards effectively.