Which surface has priority after runways for snow and ice removal?

• A. Ramps and roadways
• B. Terminal buildings
• C. Hangar aprons
• D. Taxiway shoulders

Answer: (A)

Snow and ice removal follows a sequence where runways are cleared first to restore safe and efficient flight operations, then ramps and roadways because they directly support aircraft movement between gates and essential ground services. Clearing ramps and aprons enables aircraft to push back, taxi to stands, and receive fueling, deicing, baggage handling, and passenger flow without delay. Areas around terminal buildings and hangar aprons are important, but they don’t impact the immediate ability to move aircraft to and from gates as critically as ramps and roadways. Taxiway shoulders are part of the taxiing path and are cleared as part of restoring taxi routes, but the priority after runways is the ramps and roadways.