How are incidents categorized in airport traffic management?

Incidents in airport traffic management are categorized primarily by the severity of potential collisions because this classification helps prioritize responses and allocate resources effectively during an emergency. Severity-based categorization allows air traffic control and ground crews to assess the level of threat an incident poses, which is crucial for maintaining safety and efficient operations at the airport.

When incidents are classified by their severity, they can be addressed according to established protocols that correspond to the risk level, ensuring that the most serious situations receive immediate attention. This method of categorization takes into account not just the potential for collisions but also the likelihood of injury or damage to aircraft, personnel, and other infrastructures.

Other factors such as equipment, time of day, or type of aircraft can influence incident management, but they do not primarily guide the categorization of incidents regarding safety and operational response. By focusing on severity, airport traffic management enhances overall situational awareness and helps in making timely decisions to mitigate risks.