Nöbetçi Eczaneler
Passengers usually interact only with staff who serve them directly inside terminals, but behind the scenes, there is a much larger team working tirelessly, day and night, in all weather conditions, to ensure that every aircraft can take off and land safely. These teams perform critical tasks that most passengers never notice, yet they are essential for the continuous, safe operation of airports.
For example, there are teams responsible for cleaning runways, taxiways, aprons, and aircraft parking areas; winter operations crews who keep runways open during heavy snowfall; and airside maintenance teams who regularly trim grass along runways and taxiways during summer to maintain flight safety. In addition, specialized units handle wildlife management around airports to minimize risks such as bird strikes and other natural hazards.
A vital part of these unseen operations is the airport firefighting and rescue teams. Every airport is required by ICAO regulations to maintain a minimum number of trained personnel, specialized firefighting vehicles, and specific amounts of foam and extinguishing agents depending on its ARFF category (Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Category). These teams are responsible not only for responding to potential aircraft emergencies but also for any incident that may occur in terminals, aprons, fuel depots, or other critical facilities, reacting within seconds.
Although we all hope these teams never need to intervene, the reality is that they must remain prepared for the worst-case scenario at every moment. That’s why they conduct regular drills, scenario-based training, and maintain 24/7 operational readiness. Their disciplined preparedness plays a vital role in keeping airport safety standards at the highest level.
All these teams are dedicated professionals who maintain the continuous airside operations of airports, often unseen, but indispensable for flight safety. Thanks to their meticulous, coordinated, and expert work, airport operations run safely, smoothly, and on time.