Essential Guide to Airport Fences and Their Importance

An airport fence is a crucial component in maintaining the security and safety of an airport. This physical barrier, often enhanced with advanced electronic and cybersecurity measures, serves to prevent unauthorized access and protect vital airport facilities and aircraft. By defining the airport's boundaries, the fence acts as the first line of defense against potential threats, ensuring the safety of passengers, staff, and critical infrastructure. Additionally, it helps in crowd control, wildlife management, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards set by authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

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What is an Airport Fence?

An airport fence is a physical barrier installed around the perimeter of an airport.

It is vital to security as it prevents unauthorized access and protects the airport's facilities and aircraft. The fence outlines the airport's boundaries, creating the first line of defense. It can be enhanced with physical, electronic, and cybersecurity systems. Overall, it is crucial for keeping staff and passengers safe, guarding fuel sources, and preventing the hijacking of planes and vehicles.

What are the Different Types of Airport Fences?

Before installing airport fencing, it is important to decide on the type that will be used. There are various options, but the most popular and common types are:

Chain Link Fences
Made of interlocking wires that create a grid pattern.

Welded Wire Mesh Fences
Security welded airport fences are made from welded wire mesh panels with wires welded together instead of interlocking.

Anti-Climb Fences
Feature narrow gaps between the wires, making it difficult for someone to gain a foothold and climb over.

Electric Fences
Designed to deliver an electric shock and provide high security.

Concrete Walls
Made of reinforced concrete and designed to withstand high-impact collisions.

Artificial Grass Privacy Fence
Combined with a chain-link fence, wrought iron fence, or concrete wall, creating a high-security grass fence.

Why Are Airport Fences Important?

An airport security fence is important for many reasons, including safety, privacy, visual appeal, defining borders, and crowd control. There are even regulations that require airports to meet specific security standards set by authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). These regulations provide detailed guidelines on proper installation and maintenance. Therefore, it is crucial to choose correct airport fencing that complies with these regulations to ensure safety and security.

What Role Do They Play in Security?

Airport secure fencing plays a vital role in today's world of increasing threat levels and the corresponding government-required security upgrades. These fences serve as visually intimidating barriers that provide control over the perimeter. Additionally, fencing helps keep wildlife off runways and other operational areas, which is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining safe airport operations.

To make your fences even more secure and private, we recommend you check our how to make the fences more secure blog content.

How Do They Prevent Unauthorized Access?

By adding an airport secure fence, the security of all perimeter can increase by approximately 50% to 90%, depending on factors such as the type of fence, its construction, and other considerations. This significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access, potential terrorist attacks, vandalism, and other malicious activities. Modern airports often integrate these fences with motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems to enhance security. 

What Materials Are Airport Fences Made Of?

The most common materials for airport fences are metal, including galvanized steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. But they can be constructed also from concrete and artificial grass. At Grasstik, we offer two types of artificial grass walls.

Grass Fence Roll can be combined with metal fences to provide security, durability, and resistance to climbing, while also ensuring privacy for the area.

Grass Fence Panels option is ideal for setting boundaries in specific areas. It is easy to install and visually appealing, making it perfect for dividing spaces such as outdoor waiting areas, taxi stands, food courts, etc.

How to Install Airport Fences?

To determine the precise requirements for the airport security fencing, conduct a comprehensive survey of the airport&#;s boundary. This study should establish terrain, infrastructure, and entrances that could pose challenges. Consider the following:

Assess Threat Level
Consider the level of threat, air traffic volume, and areas needing protection.

Map Perimeter
Create detailed maps to define boundaries and identify critical areas around the airport.

Assess Landscape
Look for elevation changes, soil types, and obstacles. This helps install posts and materials correctly.

Identify Structures
Spot roads, buildings, and utilities that may impact fence installation. Make sure the fence integrates well.

Note Access Points
Consider current and future gates and exits. Align security measures with the overall plan.

Height and Length
Decide on fence height and length, meeting regulations and safety standards. Common heights are 8 to 12 feet, with taller fences providing more security.

Enhance Security
With barbed wire/razor wire, electronic surveillance, proper lighting along the fence, and signage.

What is the Installation Process?

• Site Preparation
  Clear obstructions and level the ground.
  Mark the fence line according to design specifications.
• Post Installation
  Install fence posts at specified intervals.
  Set posts in concrete for stability and durability.
• Fence Installation
  Attach the fence fabric (e.g., chain link, welded wire mesh) to the posts, ensuring it is taut and secure.
  If you are using Grasstik Panels or Grasstik Rolls, please visit our website for more detailed instructions.
• Security Enhancements
  Add barbed wire, razor wire, or electronic sensors.
• Gates and Access Points
  Install gates and access points to match the security standards of the rest of the fence.
• Inspection and Testing
  Conduct a thorough inspection to ensure proper installation and functioning of all security features.

What Equipment is Required for Installation?

Fence Panels or Rolls
Chain-link, mesh, Grasstik walls, etc.

Sturdy Posts
These may be made of steel, aluminum, or another durable material.

Post Hole Digger
Either a manual post hole digger or a powered auger.

Concrete
To secure the fence posts in the ground.

Level
To prevent any leaning or instability of posts.

Fasteners
Nuts, bolts, screws, and other fasteners.

Gate Hardware
Such as hinges, latches, and locks if the fence includes gates for vehicle or pedestrian access.

Wire Cutters
If you're installing a chain-link fence or another type of wire-based fence.

Safety Gear
Personal protective equipment (PPE).

Transportation Equipment
Such as forklifts or trucks for transport.

Surveying Tools
Measuring tapes, laser levels, and markers.

Heavy Machinery
For larger airport projects, cranes or earth-moving equipment may be required.

Security Equipment
Surveillance cameras, motion sensors, or intrusion detection systems.

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Compliance Documentation
Ensure you have all necessary permits, approvals, and compliance documentation with airport fencing standards.

What Should Be Considered During Installation?

In the planning process, ensure regulatory compliance of airport fencing standards with the following:

• FAA Regulations: The Federal Aviation Administration has guidelines for airport security that include fencing requirements. It covers aspects such as minimum height, construction standards, and maintenance.
• TSA Regulations: The Transportation Security Administration provides security directives that outline the necessary measures for airport perimeter security, including fencing.
• ICAO Standards: International airports should also consider the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and recommended practices for airport security.
• Local and State Regulations: Be aware of and comply with any local or state regulations that may apply to the installation of security fences.

How to Maintain Airport Fences?

Ensuring the airport fences are well-maintained is paramount for safeguarding the security and safety of the entire premises. These properly kept barriers play a vital role in averting accidents by effectively deterring wildlife, managing debris, and preventing unauthorized access. Overall, an airport with well-maintained fences portrays an image of professionalism and competence, earning it a high reputation and the trust of its patrons.

Is Regular Maintenance Required?

Factors such as weathering, wear and tear, vegetation growth, and potential damage from wildlife or intruders necessitate ongoing attention to keep the fences in optimal condition.

What Steps Are Involved in Maintenance?

1. Inspection

Regular visual inspections are essential for identifying any signs of damage, deterioration, or breaches in the fence. Check for loose or missing fasteners, damaged panels, leaning posts, and any indications of corrosion.

1. Repair and Replacement

Any issues discovered during inspections should be promptly addressed by repairing or replacing damaged components. This may involve re-securing loose fasteners, straightening leaning posts, patching holes, or even replacing entire sections of the fence if necessary.

1. Vegetation Management

Regular trimming of vegetation near the fence line is necessary to prevent it from obstructing visibility or exerting pressure on the fence structure.

1. Corrosion Control

For metal fences, periodically check for corrosion. Corrosion weakens the fence and compromises its effectiveness. Any signs of corrosion should be promptly treated with appropriate rust inhibitors or protective coatings.

1. Security Features Maintenance

If the fence includes gates, locks, or security features such as cameras or motion sensors, these should undergo regular inspections to ensure they function correctly.

1. Documentation

It's important to maintain records of maintenance activities, including inspection reports, repair logs, and any relevant documentation related to compliance with regulatory requirements. This documentation serves as a valuable reference for tracking maintenance history and demonstrating compliance with airport fencing standards.

Fences surround airports; maybe you&#;ve noticed this trend over the past 10, 15, maybe even 20 years. As we as a population become more aware of security and potential threats, physical barriers are added to life in the name of protecting us. Some people view these security measures as unnecessary barriers and headaches, while other accept the measures and deal with them.

You can put me in the category of wanting to go through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening at the big airport. Yeah, you read that right&#; I know the process is flawed and there are issues, but if you have the ability to add a layer of safety, why wouldn&#;t you? Exactly&#;

Anyways, back to general aviation and airport fences&#; I remember as a young kid my father would take me to different airports to watch planes (usually Norwood, MA or Taunton, MA) taking off and landing. I&#;ll bet if you asked him after paying for my private pilot license if he would have skipped the airport a couple times when I was very young he might say so, but I&#;m glad we made all those trips on our explorations.

While all those years ago we would sit and watch planes and often there was either no fence or there would be a fence but it would be a short 4-foot fence, just to prevent children (like me) from running out onto the ramp and into a place where we could be in danger. Fast-forward more than 20 years and now almost every airport is surrounded by 8-10 foot fences with three strands of barbed wire strung at the top. Are we at an airport or a prison you might ask&#; If your airport doesn&#;t have a fence, it wouldn&#;t shock me if one was in the plans or on the way during the next few years.

Growing up working at a general aviation airport (Mansfield Municipal, 1B9) I took the fences for granted, they were there and there wasn&#;t anything you could do about it&#; But that doesn&#;t stop a lot of pilots from complaining about the &#;unnecessary&#;, &#;pointless&#; & &#;useless&#; waste of money that an airfield fence is. Keep in mind I say this as a fellow pilot, not someone working in airport management, GET OVER IT!

Seriously, the fences are here to stay, deal with it. If all you have to complain about is the fence protecting your airport and your airplane then I think you have it good enough to not need to complain. If you don&#;t fall into that group then I&#;m sure there is something more important that you could spend your time concerned with besides a fence protecting your airplane! Here are three reasons why general aviation pilots should find something else to complain about:

1. Fences serve as a barrier to protect the airfield assets.

Fences keep honest people honest&#; If a person has real nefarious intentions then it is highly likely a chain-link fence will only serve to slow them down. But, that means that it will take longer to complete whatever nefarious activity they set out to commit. As a result, there is a greater chance they will get caught or possibly even &#;spooked&#; away.

Moreover, fences provide enough of a barrier to stop individuals who are aimless and don&#;t have nefarious intentions but have a lack of motivation to go elsewhere to cause trouble. Essentially dealing with the fence and barbed wire is too much of a hassle for these individuals looking for the &#;low hanging fruit&#; type of trouble to cause. It&#;s much easier to go tip over some trash containers into a yard than to get through a security fence and trash an airplane at the local airport.

On another note, as I highlighted earlier, the fence will keep those who don&#;t know any better out of the Airport Operations Area (AOA). This means everyone from nosey tourists to children who could inadvertently walk into/break a pitot tube, rudder, etc&#; At an extreme level, the fence will prevent children from running into a spinning propeller, which would be the worst possible scenario.

2. Fences make aviation prestigious.*

Many pilots complain that the fence keep people away are correct. If someone sees a fence then they are likely to turn away as they will likely not want to be seen as doing something wrong by trying to get inside the fence incorrectly&#; This is something that we are getting wrong in aviation. Look at neighborhoods and communities. Gated communities are viewed as desirable and prestigious. Airports can do the same thing, it&#;s literally the positioning that we have wrong as an industry. The airport is a really &#;neat&#; place where exciting things are happening and that deserves to be exclusive!

If aviation wants to be successful we need to embrace this feeling. Naysayers will say this is similar to trying to be a country club and being &#;snooty&#;&#; Well yes, and no. Why do you think the country club has nice plush green fairways while the public course has fairways that could be mistaken for sand traps at the private course? If we educate the public that the uniqueness of an airport requires a fence and that is the same reason why they should come and be a part of the airport then we can use the security fence to our advantage. Imagine that, by thinking slightly differently we can take something we now consider a disadvantage and a barrier keeping people away from aviation and turn the fence into our advantage!

3. Fences keep wildlife away.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly these fences do have a role in protecting our level of safety while flying. A good fence will keep wildlife, specifically deer and coyotes away from the runways and taxiways. Have you ever seen a car after it hits a deer on a highway? The deer usually loses that battle, but I&#;d have a hard time saying the car is the winner very often&#; Keep in mind cars are designed to be able to run into things, or at least provide a level of safety when they do (or when things hit them). Airplanes on the other hand are designed to fly as effectively and efficiently as possible, not (specifically) to withstand a major wildlife strike.

The same physical barrier that keeps the individual with malicious intentions in the parking lot and not on the ramp keeps deer in the forest and out of the AOA. Again, pilots will say deer have always existed. Again, these naysayers about the airport fence are correct, kind of&#; The deer population has been skyrocketing throughout the &#;s and since. The population of deer has continued a distinct increase over the past 20 years. Thus, there may not have been a lot of deer issues years ago before airports were completely fenced in, but there are a lot more deer now, which means the chances are a lot higher of wildlife strikes than they would have been before.

To wrap this up I&#;ll just say that I understand fences cause people to avoid the airport, but that isn&#;t because fences have a bad wrap&#; Ever notice how many people willingly install fences in their own yards? The reason airfield fences keep people away from aviation is the reputation WE give them. The FAA has invested a lot of money in them and I don&#;t expect them to spend a lot more to rip them down and remove them. So let&#;s embrace the fences and go out and try to actually use them to our advantage. It&#;s a challenge, sure; can you handle it? Lastly, change is a reality, and the only thing that doesn&#;t change is the fact that change is a constant. So, just because fences didn&#;t use to exist, doesn&#;t mean we should not have them now&#;

-Fly Safe, @MTElia1B9

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