Per year the total cost of FOD in the aerospace industry is approximately:

The total cost of Foreign Object Damage (FOD) in the aerospace industry being approximately $12 billion can be attributed to several factors. FOD refers to any foreign object that could potentially cause damage to aircraft during operations, either in-flight or on the ground. This damage can lead to costly repairs, increased maintenance, and extended downtime, resulting in significant financial implications for airlines and manufacturers.

The figure represents the cumulative costs associated with damage assessments, repairs, and operational disruptions caused by FOD instances. This estimate considers not only direct costs but also indirect impacts such as lost revenue due to grounded aircraft and the costs of implementing FOD prevention measures, which include training, inspections, and systems to mitigate risks.

Understanding the scale of FOD costs is critical for aerospace professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of rigorous safety and maintenance standards to safeguard air travel and minimize financial losses.