Airport volunteers participate in annual FOD Walk
By DeAllous Smith

Nearly 100 volunteers scanned Runway 8L/26R at Hartsfield-Jackson on November 7 to find and remove foreign object debris (FOD) as part of the Airport’s 11th annual FOD Walk.

Aviation officials closed the runway and the north cargo ramp for about 30 minutes for the event, during which some participants removed pieces of paper and small rocks. The overall amount of FOD collected was minimal. Hartsfield-Jackson performs daily FOD inspections to ensure that the airfield is clear of debris.

“We received a great response from airline and Airport volunteers who wanted to be a part of this exciting event,” said Aviation General Manager Louis Miller. “In spite of this morning’s weather, we are extremely proud of the turnout and the support given to us throughout the years.

“Our Operations team does an outstanding job in identifying and removing foreign object debris from our runways. By regularly canvassing the airfield for hazardous debris, Hartsfield-Jackson has consistently managed to maintain an excellent safety record.” 

The annual FOD Walk is designed to increase public awareness about the potential damage that even small objects — such as rocks, luggage straps and plastics — can create.

Employees are encouraged to pick up debris along the roadways and report items spotted on the airfield to the Airport’s Airside Operations unit.

Volunteers walk along Runway 8L/26R to look for foreign object debris (FOD), which can cause serious damage to aircraft.