· Response 1: Robert Laymon (Jul 29, 2020 10:36 PM) – Read by: 1 Mark as ReadReply to This Message Reply Hello Class and Prof, I had the opportunity to travel while in the Military to multiple countries and most importantly austere airfields. At each airfield each had to receive this same airfield assessment or certification for U.S. Air Force needs. Despite that, the AF had different assessments than most of the FAA airport certification categories. One category that's identical is; Ramp/apron-aircraft parking areas. Part of the purpose of Ramps and aprons is; adequate aircraft parking and tie-down areas are provided, well clear of taxiways, and prominently marked (Well, Young. 2011). This is so important as to provide adequate aircraft parking for arriving flights. Adequate parking also allows the free movement of arriving and departing aircraft. Tie-down areas cover parked aircraft for safety reasons during storms. They can also provide for maintenance and grounding of aircraft during refueling. It's important that aircraft parking is clear from active taxiways. Parked aircraft away from taxiways clears up a misconception that an aircraft might be mistaken for a moving aircraft. Tamps and Aprons also provide a clear path for all moving aircraft like a mini expressway or highway for aircraft about to leave. This is also important for the testing the parking ramp area is tested to hold the certain weighted aircraft. For example, in order for a C5 which is the largest of AF cargo aircraft requires a certain thickness of cement in order to sustain the weight. It can turn out to be a long day if the shear weight of a C5 or 747 start to sink into the Ramp cement. It will render that aircraft to that spot until it can be moved with a tow vehicle. aircraft is loaded with cargo, cargo would need to be downloaded before the plane will be able to be moved depending on the airlines safety protocols. Rob Laymon Wells, A. and Young, S. (2011). Airport Planning and Management Transportation, 6th edition. New York, New York: McGraw-Hill Professional. ISBN-13: 978007175024