Why must vehicles yield to aircraft?

Vehicles must yield to aircraft primarily for safety reasons, as aircraft are granted the right of way on airside areas. This rule is crucial in ensuring the safe operation of both vehicles and aircraft, as the potential for severe accidents increases dramatically if vehicles do not yield. Aircraft are often moving at higher speeds and are more difficult to maneuver than ground vehicles, making it essential that ground traffic yields to them to prevent collisions and ensure the safety of everyone in the vicinity.

While following airport staff directions and facilitating smoother operations are important considerations, they are secondary to the absolute necessity of prioritizing aircraft safety on the airside. The inherent risks associated with aircraft operations dictate that vehicles must yield to ensure that the airside remains a safe environment for both aircraft and ground vehicles. Additionally, aircraft have established procedures and regulations that prioritize their movement, underscoring the importance of yielding to their right of way.