MCAS - Yuma Adds a New Weapon to their Arsenal
Enhancing Airfield Safety at MCAS - Yuma with FODS Trackout Control Mats
Prioritizing Airfield Safety
At Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, safety is paramount. As home to some of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, including the F-35B and F-35C, the stakes are high. A single piece of debris, also known as Foreign Object Debris (FOD), can cause catastrophic damage to aircraft, endangering both pilots and ground crews.
Historically, FOD management at MCAS Yuma relied on labor-intensive manual inspections—a time-consuming process that, while effective, left room for improvement. In May 2024, the air station introduced a new solution: FODS Trackout Control Mats. The results not only exceeded expectations but also redefined FOD management at one of the U.S. Marine Corps’ most critical installations.
FODS installed on Land to Air gate at MCAS Yuma
Unique Challenges at MCAS Yuma
MCAS Yuma serves as a training hub for the U.S. Marine Corps, hosting the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and VMFT-401 adversary aircraft. The airfield’s operations revolve around advanced, high-value aircraft, making FOD prevention essential to maintaining mission readiness and protecting billions of dollars of investment.
Located in the Arizona desert, roughly two and a half hours from San Diego, California and three hours from Phoenix, Arizona the remote air station faces unique environmental challenges. Harsh desert winds blow gravel, dust, and vegetation onto the tarmac, adding to the risks posed by man-made debris. Maintaining a pristine airfield in such conditions is a constant battle, requiring innovative solutions.
The FODS Trackout Control Mat System
Designed to tackle debris at its source, FOD Prevention Mats offered by FODS, LLC offer the first proactive, highly effective replacement for traditional manual FOD Checks. The mats feature raised pyramidal nodules that remove debris from vehicle tires as they pass over, trapping contaminants in place for easy disposal. Positioned at critical access points, these mats prevent debris from being tracked onto sensitive airfield areas.
Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on manual inspections that can be missed or forgotten, the FOD Prevention mats work proactively, intercepting debris before it reaches the tarmac.
The Trial: Testing FODS Mats at MCAS Yuma
In May 2024, MCAS Yuma conducted a three-day trial to evaluate the effectiveness of FODS Trackout Control Mats. The mats were installed at key vehicle entry points, while the existing manual inspection process continued in parallel. Crews collected and analyzed debris captured by both methods, comparing their effectiveness.
The results were compelling:
982% Increase in FOD Captured: The FODS mats captured nearly 10 times more debris than manual inspections alone.
529% Increase in Debris Weight: The weight of the debris collected by the mats was more than five times greater.
7.73% Reduction in FOD Check Time: Vehicles moved through checkpoints faster, reducing inspection times and improving efficiency.
Redefining FOD Management
The introduction of FODS Trackout Control Mats delivered immediate and measurable benefits for MCAS Yuma:
Enhanced Safety: By capturing debris at access points, the mats significantly reduced the risk of FOD-related incidents, protecting aircraft, pilots, and ground crews.
Improved Efficiency: An 8% reduction in FOD check time made operations run smoother, freeing up personnel for other critical tasks.
Cost Savings: The mats helped prevent costly aircraft repairs and operational delays by reducing FOD risks.
Environmental Control: FODS mats also minimized the spread of dust and debris beyond the airfield, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Implications for Airfields Worldwide
The success of the FODS Trackout Control Mats at MCAS Yuma has broader implications for military and civilian airfields facing similar challenges. Airports around the world battle FOD daily, and the proven effectiveness of FODS mats offers a practical, scalable solution.
Already in use at military installations globally, from South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, FOD Prevention Mats continue to set the standard for proactive FOD management, ensuring safer and more efficient airfield operations.
Conclusion
At MCAS Yuma, where every second and every dollar counts, the FODS Trackout Control Mats proved to be a game-changer. By capturing nearly ten times more debris, reducing inspection times, and enhancing safety, these mats redefined what effective FOD management looks like.
This success story underscores the power of simple yet innovative solutions. Whether it’s safeguarding the world’s most advanced aircraft or improving the efficiency of daily operations, FODS Trackout Control Mats are paving the way for safer, smarter airfields worldwide.
ABOUT FODS, LLC.
Based in Centennial Colorado, FODS is working to replace ineffective and costly traditional rock stabilized construction entrances, saving you time and money. Our proprietary mat design works to effectively remove debris from your vehicle tires without damaging the tire or the ground’s surface. FODS Vehicle Trackout Controls BMP mats are 100% Made In the USA and 100% recyclable.
To find out more information on how we can help your project stay on schedule and in compliance contact 844-200-3637 or email us at info@getfods.com.