How far must you park or drive from the front of an aircraft while engines are running?

The requirement to park or drive at least 25 feet from the front of an aircraft while its engines are running is based on safety protocols designed to protect personnel from the jet blast and potential hazards associated with the aircraft's operation. Jet engines can produce powerful thrust that may project debris and pose a serious risk to anyone within close proximity.

Maintaining a distance of 25 feet creates a safety buffer, allowing for the safe movement of ground personnel and equipment while the aircraft is in operation. This standard distance helps to mitigate the risk of injury from both the force of the jet blast and any foreign object debris that could be blown around near the aircraft. Other distances mentioned, while might be in consideration for different scenarios, do not provide the specific safety standard relevant to personnel interactions with the front of an aircraft during engine operation.