Posted on August 9, 2022 by Lilia Cabello Drain

FOD Walk brings community together

King County International Airport’s second annual “FOD Walk” drew about 120 participants who came to look for Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on the runway and share a unique experience on a closed airport runway.

They found very little debris, a testament to the ongoing work of airport employees, tenants and customers in keeping the airfield clean and safe, according to event organizer and Airport Duty Manager Sam Priest.

Despite the lack of trash, the experience itself was interesting, participants said.

“It was cool to walk it,” said pilot Oxana Poburinnaya, who was excited to walk the runway for the first time.

Several participants took selfies during the event or had pictures taken of them sitting or standing on the runway.

The FOD Walk wrapped up with refreshments and giveaways by 10 a.m., before temperatures peaked during the fifth day of a heat wave. Marvin Moye, Sam Priest, and Chief Thomas designed a special event t-shirt for participants. T-Mobile sponsored the t-shirts, first aid kits and notepads. Other giveaways included free tickets to the Museum of Flight, courtesy of the museum. Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) provided staff, medical support, fire engines, and tokens of appreciation.

Galvin Flying and Civil Air Patrol brought airplanes to the event and the Civil Air Patrol also helped with event set up, tear down and parking.

In addition, more than a dozen airport and ARFF employees supported the FOD Walk. Special thanks to these airport employees who played critical roles: