What elements are included in the Air Operations Area (AOA)?

The Air Operations Area (AOA) is a critical zone at an airport that encompasses specific areas directly related to the movement of aircraft. These include taxiways, runways, loading ramps, and parking areas, all of which are essential for the safe operation of aircraft.

Taxiways connect runways to other parts of the airport and facilitate the movement of aircraft to and from the runway and parking areas. Runways are the designated paths for aircraft takeoff and landing. Loading ramps are vital for the efficient transfer of cargo and baggage from the terminal to the aircraft, and parking areas provide spots for aircraft to stay when not in operation.

The other choices involve areas that are not part of the AOA. Commercial terminals, passengers, and baggage claim areas focus on the traveler experience and commercial operations but do not pertain to aircraft operations directly. Similarly, security screening zones and ticketing areas are related to the processing of passengers rather than the areas that vehicles use during flight operations. Therefore, the correct elements included in the AOA are those directly associated with the operation and movement of aircraft, which is why this response stands out as the accurate representation of the AOA.