This United States Army manual, Army Techniques Publication ATP 3-04.16 Airfield Operations September 2023, details non-prescriptive airfield operational procedures that support aviation throughout the range of military operations. While it contains techniques for aviation unit commanders and aviators, the manual is intended primarily for use by. aviation personnel employed within airfield management elements of Aviation Brigades, Airfield Operations Battalions (AOB), and installation airfield management teams. This manual outlines airfield management organization and is divided into three parts to present techniques that support airfield contingency operations, aviation unit operations, and installation garrison operations. Services of the theater airfield operations groups (TAOGs), AOBs, aviation unit plans and operations staff, and installation airfield management operations. It explains personnel qualifications, duties, and responsibilities critical to establishing and operating an airfield. It also provides information on airfield design, security, and support requirements when planning and operating an airfield within a theater of operations (TO) or during homeland security operations. Installation airfield management structure, responsibilities, services, and safety requirements are presented in part II of this manual.
The principal audience for ATP 3-04.16 is all members of the profession of arms. Commanders and staffs of Army headquarters (HQ) serving as a joint task force or multinational HQ should also refer to applicable joint or multinational doctrine concerning the range of military operations and joint or multinational forces. Trainers and educators throughout the Army will also use this publication.