This is the designated hardstand surface adjacent to the terminal buildings or hangars. It is a highly active zone filled with ground support equipment, fuel trucks, baggage carts, and ground crew. Strict right-of-way rules apply here to prevent collisions between taxiing aircraft and ground vehicles.
Heard on the job
Hold short of the apron and wait for the marshaller to guide you into the gate.
Also heard as
- ramp
- tarmac
Do not mix it up with
- Runway: The runway is strictly for takeoffs and landings, while the apron is for parking and servicing.