Why is it important to obey speed limits in airside movement areas?

Obeying speed limits in airside movement areas is crucial to ensuring the safety of aircraft operations. These areas are highly congested and involve both ground vehicles and aircraft, where the risk of accidents increases significantly if vehicles do not adhere to established speed limits. Speed limits are designed to give drivers ample time to react to unforeseen circumstances, such as sudden movements of aircraft or other vehicles, and to maintain appropriate distances from active runways and taxiways. This adherence directly contributes to preventing collisions, protecting personnel, and ensuring the overall safety of airside operations. Such safety measures are vital in an environment where high-speed aircraft are operating, and any lapse could result in serious incidents.