Risk Analysis Framework for Airport Infrastructure Systems: A Novel Integrated Approach

Airports are complex infrastructure systems characterized by diverse equipment, activities, and departments that must seamlessly integrate to fulfill their roles with minimal faults. Enhancing the reliability of airport systems is vital to maintain their operational efficiency. The purpose of this study is to develop a risk analysis framework based on integrated fuzzy-failure mode and effects analysis for assessing risks of airport systems. The potential failure modes associated with each system and failure causes are identified based on historical incidents and interviewing experts. The fuzzy approach is used to prioritize failure modes based on severity, occurrence, and detectability. The risk priority numbers of integrated fuzzy-failure mode and effects analysis (fuzzy-FMEA) are benchmarked with the traditional failure mode and effects analysis to highlight the benefits of considering uncertainties using fuzzy approach. The findings showed that the most critical failure modes are jet fuel tank rupture, runway approach light failure, weather station readings transmission failure, flickering approach lights, and instrument landing system glideslope deviation. The study indicates the appropriateness of the integrated fuzzy-FMEA approach for assessing risks of airport systems. It highlights that proactive maintenance practices, robust infrastructure, and continuous monitoring are essential and effective practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of airport operations.