In what scenario are vehicle operators advised to exceed posted speed limits?

Vehicle operators are advised to exceed posted speed limits only in emergencies when absolutely necessary and authorized. This standard is rooted in the principle of safety first. Speed limits are established to promote a safe environment for all airside operations, which includes vehicles, pedestrians, and aircraft. Exceeding these limits can have dangerous implications, especially in high-traffic areas like an airport.

In emergency situations, adherence to standard speed limits may impede a quick response to a critical incident, such as a medical emergency or to facilitate timely assistance to aircraft in distress. However, even in emergencies, such actions must be authorized to ensure that excessive speed is warranted, controlled, and understood within the operational context. This policy helps maintain a balance between responsiveness and overall safety for all airfield users.

Other scenarios, such as running late, seeing an open road, or trying to keep pace with arriving aircraft, do not justify exceeding speed limits and could lead to dangerous situations where vehicle operators may lose control or fail to react appropriately to unexpected conditions.