When driving and parking near aircraft, how should the vehicle be positioned?

Positioning the vehicle with the driver's side towards the aircraft is crucial for safety and operational efficiency. This orientation allows the driver to have a clear line of sight to the aircraft and any surrounding activity, such as ground crew or taxiing aircraft. Being able to see the aircraft directly ensures that the driver can maintain awareness of their surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, this positioning enhances the driver's ability to react promptly in the case of an emergency or when needing to vacate the area quickly. It also aligns with standard procedures to keep the driver's side adjacent to the aircraft, which can facilitate communication or transfer of documents if necessary, while providing a barrier between the driver and the aircraft's proximity.

In contrast, facing the aircraft or having the passenger side towards it does not provide the same level of visibility and awareness. Allowing the vehicle to be positioned in any direction as long as it’s away from the aircraft does not adhere to the nuanced safety practices required on an airfield, potentially leading to an unsafe driving scenario.