Practice question

If a vehicle becomes disabled on an active taxiway, who should the driver contact?

  1. Ground Control
  2. Airfield Management/Control Tower
  3. Security Forces
  4. The nearest mechanic

Answer: B — Airfield Management/Control Tower

When a vehicle becomes disabled on an active taxiway, the appropriate action is to contact Airfield Management or the Control Tower. This is because Airfield Management is responsible for overall operations and safety on the airfield, including traffic management. They have the authority and capability to communicate with aircraft and other vehicles in the area, ensuring that the situation is handled safely and effectively. In addition, the Control Tower can provide real-time information to pilots regarding the disabled vehicle, potentially rerouting incoming and outgoing aircraft to prevent accidents or further complications. Prompt communication with these authorities is crucial for ensuring safety on the active taxiway, as they can coordinate the removal of the vehicle and secure the area for aircraft operations. Other options, such as contacting Ground Control, Security Forces, or the nearest mechanic, may not provide the necessary immediate safety measures and communication that the situation requires. While Ground Control might manage taxiing aircraft, Airfield Management has broader oversight and emergency protocols in place for disabled vehicles. Security Forces typically handle security and law enforcement issues rather than operational control on the airfield. Contacting a nearest mechanic would delay the necessary actions for safety and could exacerbate the situation on the runway or taxiway.

Practice more: USAF Airfield Driving Practice Exam →