What is the primary safety concern when working near operating aircraft?

The primary safety concern when working near operating aircraft is the risk associated with moving parts and jet blast. Aircraft are equipped with numerous moving components such as propellers, ailerons, and landing gear, which pose significant risk to personnel on the ground. If a worker is in close proximity without proper awareness or protective measures, they could be struck by these parts, leading to serious injury.

Additionally, jet blast—created by high-speed exhaust coming from the engines—can displace objects and even personnel, causing potential harm. The intense power of jet blast can even blow debris and individuals away, creating hazardous conditions on the ramp.

While bird strikes, exhaust fumes, and weather conditions are all valid concerns in aviation safety, they do not present the same immediate risk as the moving parts and the force of jet blast generated by operating aircraft. Understanding and mitigating the dangers associated with these hazards is crucial for maintaining safety in the ramp environment.