What must be done prior to leaving the pavement in the CMA?

Performing a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) check on the shoulder is critical before leaving the pavement in a Controlled Movement Area (CMA). A FOD check ensures that the area is clear of any objects that could pose a hazard to aircraft operations. Debris such as rocks, tools, or any other materials could cause severe damage to aircraft and lead to dangerous situations during takeoff, landing, or taxiing.

Prior to transitioning from a paved area, it is essential to maintain high safety standards, and ensuring that the ground is free of FOD is a crucial step in that process. This act not only promotes safety for the aircraft but also contributes to the overall efficiency of operations within the CMA.

Performing a vehicle inspection, obtaining an Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearance, and notifying ground control are all important procedures during ground operations, but the specific action of conducting a FOD check directly addresses the immediate safety concerns related to leaving the pavement.