Which services are classified as "ramp services" in airport terminology?

Ramp services in airport terminology refer to all the operations that support the functioning of an aircraft while it is on the ground, ensuring it is ready for departure and compliant with operational safety standards. These services include fueling, ground handling, baggage loading and unloading, and maintenance checks that take place before takeoff. The purpose of ramp services is to ensure that aircraft can efficiently transition between arrival and departure phases while maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

While passenger boarding and deplaning services are important, they are considered part of terminal services rather than ramp services because they focus on passenger movement rather than direct aircraft support. Maintenance and repair services for ground vehicles are crucial for the operation of airport logistics but do not directly pertain to the aircraft itself. Additionally, security protocols for the terminal area relate to safeguarding passengers and airport facilities, not the aircraft on the ramp. Thus, the core definition of ramp services encompasses the supporting functions that keep aircraft operational during their time on the ground, aligning perfectly with the correct answer.