scope:

This standard contains the minimum requirements for aircraft rescue and fire-fighting (ARFF) services at airports. Requirements for other airport fire protection services are not covered in this document.

Purpose.

This standard is prepared for the use and guidance of those charged with providing and maintaining aircraft rescue and fire-fighting services at airports.

The principal objective of a rescue and fire-fighting service is to save lives. For this reason, the preparation for dealing with an aircraft accident or incident occurring at, or in the immediate vicinity of, an airport is of primary importance because it is within this location that the greatest opportunity to save lives exists. The possibility of, and need for, extinguishing a fire that can occur either immediately following an aircraft accident or incident, or at any time during rescue operations, must be assumed at all times.

The most important factors bearing on effective rescue in a survivable aircraft accident are the training received, the effectiveness of the equipment, and the speed with which personnel and equipment designated for rescue and fire-fighting purposes can be put to use.