FOD Detection
Be Ready For The Unexpected
Xsight's automated FOD Detection system, called FODetect® (Foreign Object Debris Detect), provides continuous monitoring of airport runways for rapid removal of foreign object debris in all weather conditions. FODetect® is the cornerstone of RunWize, our comprehensive runway threat detection solution, which leverages the fusion of a millimeter-wave radar with electro-optical high definition imaging for superior detection performance.
FOD on airport runways is a well known problem in the aviation industry. Still, FOD is abrupt by its nature. Examples of FOD include tire parts, asphalt chunks, screws, inset lights, and generally any object that appears on the runway which does not belong there. The presence of such objects may become extremely hazardous once striking an aircraft during take-off and landing.
In addition, foreign object debris also creates operational difficulties for airports. For example, the collection of debris following a burst tire incident could take more than 30 minutes during which the runway remains closed for aircraft operations. FODetect® allows to replace this lengthy process with a quick, pinpointed collection that significantly cuts runway closure time, thereby minimizes the damage to the flow of operations.
FOD on airport runways is a well known problem in the aviation industry. Still, FOD is abrupt by its nature. Examples of FOD include tire parts, asphalt chunks, screws, inset lights, and generally any object that appears on the runway which does not belong there. The presence of such objects may become extremely hazardous once striking an aircraft during take-off and landing.
In addition, foreign object debris also creates operational difficulties for airports. For example, the collection of debris following a burst tire incident could take more than 30 minutes during which the runway remains closed for aircraft operations. FODetect® allows to replace this lengthy process with a quick, pinpointed collection that significantly cuts runway closure time, thereby minimizes the damage to the flow of operations.
FIVE FACTS ABOUT FOD
- FOD stands for both Foreign Object Debris and Foreign Object Damage.
- The Concorde fatal crash in July 2000 is the most disastrous FOD-related accident, caused by a 43-inch metal strip strike.
- Damage caused by FOD amounts to nearly $13 billion in financial losses annually for the aviation industry worldwide.
- As airports are required to inspect the runway only a few times a day, up to hundreds of aircraft could take off and land in between inspections at busy airports, putting them at risk for FOD damage.
- The ability to scan the runway continuously without interfering takeoffs and landings could only be achieved through the automation of FOD detection procedures.
FEATURES & CAPABILITIES
- Automatic and continuous detection of FOD, during both day and night and in all weather conditions
- Scans runway surfaces in less than 60 seconds to ensure that all aircraft are clear for safe arrivals and departures
- No blind spots, runway surfaces are scanned in full redundancy.
- Operators can analyze the imagery and manually operate the system sensor camera for visual validation of the FOD, so that false FOD alarms are avoided
- Personnel sent to remove FOD are guided directly to the FOD location by a laser beam that can be activated from the system sensor, all the way to the detected FOD
- Ascription capabilities for post-incident investigation and review
Xsight supports proactive runway management
Accurate FOD detection and fast removal from the runway are a daily challenge for airport operations.
FODetect provides airports with a comprehensive solution, resulting in improved safety and increased efficiency and capacity.
Watch how a screwdriver on the runway is being detected and removed in most speed and accuracy by FODetect
RELATED REGULATION
"The Federal Aviation Administration recommends the
guidance and specifications in this Advisory Circular for developing and managing an airport
FOD management program."
>FAA Advisory Circular 150/5210-24
>FAA Advisory Circular 150/5210-24
“FOD has the potential to damage aircraft during critical phases of flight,
which can lead to catastrophic loss of life and airframe, and increased maintenance and operating costs if not removed immediately. FOD hazards can be reduced, however, by using FOD detection equipment.”
>FAA Advisory Circular 150/5220-24
>FAA Advisory Circular 150/5220-24