What is the recommended practice when driving near aircraft engine intakes?

• A. Keep distance; do not pass in front of or behind a running engine
• B. Speed past the engine to quickly clear the area
• C. Approach from the side while the engine is shut down
• D. Stand directly in the engine intake area to observe airflow

Answer: (A)

Engine intakes create strong suction and can be followed by dangerous jet blast. The safest approach when a vehicle is nearby is to keep a clear distance and never pass in front of or behind a running engine. This keeps you out of the dangerous air stream and away from the risk of being pulled toward the intake, struck by debris, or injured by rotating components.

Avoid speeding through or trying to observe the airflow near the intake, and never stand in or near the intake area. Even when an engine is not running, staying a safe distance is the prudent, standard practice unless explicit authorized access is granted by airport operations.