FAA Ramp Worker Safety Survey Seeks Industry Input on Ingestion, Jet Blast Hazards

The FAA has launched a nationwide initiative to strengthen ramp worker safety by soliciting detailed feedback through a formal safety questionnaire. Mandated by Section 353 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 (Public Law 118-63), the survey aims to identify systemic hazards and evaluate the effectiveness of current training and technologies used during ground operations.

According to the Federal Register, the FAA Office of Airports is specifically targeting high-risk areas — including aircraft engine ingestion zones, jet blast corridors, and foreign object debris (FOD) hazards — and is seeking input from frontline ramp workers, fixed-base operators, airlines, and labor organizations. The initiative follows a May 2025 industry forum intended to shift the sector from reactive incident response toward proactive, systemic risk reduction. Industry groups including the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and IAMAW District 142 have encouraged members to participate through the federal Touchpoints platform.

While the FAA's focus centers on specific physical hazard zones, some labor organizations are pressing for a broader scope that addresses fatigue and staffing levels. Responses are due by July 3, 2026. The resulting data will inform recommendations that could lead to updated federal safety standards and improved airport ramp accident prevention strategies nationwide. For operational reference, ANN's Boeing 737-800 ground operations guide outlines standard ramp safety protocols.