Airport Fencing: A Critical Component of Airport Security

An airport fence is a critical component in maintaining airport security. This physical barrier often incorporates advanced electronic and cybersecurity measures 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 essential infrastructure. Additionally, it aids in crowd control, wildlife management, and compliance with strict regulatory standards set by agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

What is an Airport Fence?

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

It is crucial for security because it prevents unauthorized access and protects the airport’s facilities and aircraft. The fence defines the airport’s boundaries, forming the first line of defense. It can be enhanced with physical, electronic, and cybersecurity systems. Overall, it is essential for safeguarding staff and passengers, securing fuel sources, and preventing hijacking of aircraft and vehicles.

What Are the Different Types of Airport Fences?

Before installing an airport fence, it is important to determine the type to be used. There are several options, but the most popular and common types are:

• Chain Link Fence
  Made from interlocking metal wires that form a grid pattern.
• Welded Wire Mesh Fence
  A secure welded airport fence made from welded wire panels, where the wires are welded together rather than interlocked.
• Climb-Resistant Fence
  Features narrow gaps between the wires, making it difficult to climb or gain a foothold.
• Electric Fence
  Designed to deliver an electric shock, providing high security.
• Concrete Wall
  Made of reinforced concrete, designed to withstand high-impact collisions.
• Artificial Grass Privacy Fence
  Combined with chain link fences, wrought iron, or concrete walls, this creates a high-security hedge.

Why Are Airport Fences So Important?

Airport security fences are crucial for various reasons, including safety, privacy, aesthetics, boundary definition, and crowd control. There are even regulations requiring airports to meet specific security standards set by the FAA and TSA. These regulations provide detailed guidelines for proper installation and maintenance. Therefore, choosing the right airport fence that complies with these regulations is vital for ensuring security.

What Role Do They Play in Security?

In today’s environment of increasing threats and government-mandated security upgrades, airport security fences play a vital role. These fences serve as a visual deterrent barrier to control the surrounding area. Additionally, fences help prevent wildlife from entering runways and other operational areas, which is crucial for preventing accidents and maintaining safe airport operations.

To make your fence more secure and private, we recommend checking out our blog on how to make fences safer.

How Do They Prevent Unauthorized Access?

By adding airport security fences, overall perimeter security can improve by 50% to 90%, depending on the type of fence, structure, and other considerations. This significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access, potential terrorist attacks, vandalism, and other malicious activities. Modern airports typically integrate these fences with motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems to enhance security.

What Are Airport Fences Made From?

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

• Grass Hedge Rolls
  These can be combined with metal fences to offer security, durability, and anti-climbing properties while ensuring privacy for the area.
• Grass Hedge Panels
  This option is ideal for defining boundaries in specific areas. It is easy to install, aesthetically pleasing, and perfect for dividing outdoor waiting areas, taxi stations, food courts, etc.

How to Install an Airport Fence?

To determine the precise requirements for airport security fences, a comprehensive survey of the airport perimeter is necessary. This study should identify any challenges posed by the terrain, infrastructure, and entrances. Consider the following factors:

• Assess the Threat Level
  Consider the threat level, air traffic, and areas that need protection.
• Map the Perimeter
  Create a detailed map to define boundaries and identify key areas around the airport.
• Assess the Landscape
  Look for elevation changes, soil types, and obstacles. This helps with the proper installation of posts and materials.
• Identify Structures
  Mark roads, buildings, and utilities that may affect fence installation. Ensure the fence integrates well.
• Note Entrances and Exits
  Consider current and future gates and exits. Incorporate security measures into the overall plan.
• Height and Length
  Determine the height and length of the fence to comply with regulations and security standards. Common heights range from 8 to 12 feet; the taller the fence, the higher the security.

Use barbed wire/razor wire, electronic monitoring, appropriate lighting along the fence, and signage to enhance security.

What is the Installation Process?

• Site Preparation
  Clear obstacles 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 fence fabric (e.g., chain link, welded mesh) to the posts, ensuring it is taut and secure.
  If using Grasstik panels or rolls, visit our website for more detailed instructions.
• Security Enhancements
  Add barbed wire, razor wire, or electronic sensors.
• Gates and Entrances
  Install gates and entrances to meet the same security standards as the fence.
• Inspection and Testing
  Conduct thorough inspections to ensure all security features are properly installed and functioning.

What Equipment Is Needed for Installation?

• Fence Panels or Rolls
  Chain link, mesh, grass walls, etc.
• Sturdy Posts
  These can be made from steel, aluminum, or other durable materials.
• Post Hole Digger
  Can be a manual post hole digger or powered auger.
• Concrete
  To secure the fence posts into the ground.
• Level
  To prevent leaning or unstable posts.
• Fasteners
  Nuts, bolts, screws, and other fasteners.
• Gate Hardware
  Hinges, latches, and locks (if the fence includes gates for vehicle or pedestrian access).

If installing chain link fences or other types of wire fencing, you’ll need wire cutters.

• Safety Gear
  Personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Transport Equipment
  Forklifts or trucks for transporting materials.
• Measuring Tools
  Tape measure, laser level, and markers.
• Heavy Machinery
  For larger airport projects, a crane or excavation equipment may be necessary.
• Security Equipment
  Surveillance cameras, motion sensors, or intrusion detection systems.
• Compliance Documentation
  Ensure you have all necessary permits, approvals, and documentation to meet airport fence standards.

What Should Be Considered During Installation?

During the planning process, ensure compliance with the following airport fence standards:

• FAA Regulations
  The Federal Aviation Administration has established airport security guidelines, including fence requirements. These cover minimum heights, construction standards, and maintenance.
• TSA Regulations
  The Transportation Security Administration’s security directives outline necessary measures for perimeter security, including fencing.
• International Civil Aviation Organization 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 regarding security fence installation.

How to Maintain Airport Fences?

Proper maintenance of airport fences is crucial to ensuring the safety of the entire facility. Well-maintained barriers play a vital role in preventing wildlife intrusion, managing debris, and preventing unauthorized entry, all of which help avoid accidents. In general, airports with well-maintained fences project an image of professionalism and capability, earning a good reputation and the trust of customers.

Is Regular Maintenance Needed?

Factors such as weathering, wear and tear, vegetation growth, and potential damage caused by wildlife or intruders require continuous attention to keep the fence in optimal condition.

What Steps Does Maintenance Involve?

• Inspection
  Regular visual inspections are crucial to identifying signs of damage, aging, or wear. Check for loose or missing fasteners, damaged panels, leaning posts, and signs of corrosion.
• Repairs and Replacements
  Any issues identified during inspections should be addressed immediately by repairing or replacing damaged parts. This may involve tightening loose fasteners, straightening leaning posts, patching holes, or replacing entire sections of the fence if necessary.
• Vegetation Management
  Regularly trim vegetation near the fence to prevent it from obstructing visibility or putting pressure on the fence structure.
• Corrosion Control
  For metal fences, regularly check for signs of corrosion. Corrosion weakens the fence and compromises its effectiveness. Any signs of corrosion should be treated immediately with appropriate rust inhibitors or protective coatings.
• Security Feature Maintenance
  If the fence includes gates, locks, or security features like cameras or motion sensors, these should be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Documentation
  It’s important to maintain records of all maintenance activities, including inspection reports, repair logs, and any relevant documentation related to compliance with regulatory requirements. These documents are valuable references for tracking maintenance history and demonstrating compliance with airport fence standards.