Which type of communication is essential while driving on the airfield?

Proper radio communication with air traffic control and ground personnel is essential while driving on the airfield because it ensures safety, coordination, and situational awareness in a busy flight environment. Airfields operate under specific regulations and protocols, and staying in constant communication with tower operators and ground personnel helps to prevent accidents and misunderstandings. Such communication enables drivers to receive crucial information regarding runway use, taxiway status, and other vehicles’ positions. This two-way communication helps manage the flow of traffic on the airfield and ensures that everyone involved is aware of any changes or instructions, which is vital for maintaining safety in such a complex operating environment.

In contrast, relying solely on hand signals or verbal communication with passengers does not provide the necessary situational awareness and coordination required in an airfield setting, and suggesting that no communication is needed disregards the critical safety protocols established for aircraft operations.