What operational authorization is needed for conducting certain maintenance that involves an open flame on an apron?

Conducting maintenance that involves an open flame on an apron requires written authorization from the airport operator to ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulatory standards. This authorization helps to manage the risks associated with using open flames on or near aircraft, fuel, and other flammable materials typically found in an airport environment.

The airport operator is responsible for enforcing safety measures and ensuring that operations comply with both federal regulations and local fire codes. The written authorization provides a formal record that safety considerations have been addressed and that the necessary precautions are in place.

Other options, such as verbal approval from the fire department, while potentially useful in specific contexts, do not fulfill the formal requirement needed for such hazardous activities. Submitting a flight plan to ATC or having employee safety training certification, although important for overall safety and operation, does not specifically address the authorization needed for maintenance activities involving open flames.