Runway
Definition
A runway is a defined rectangular surface on an aerodrome prepared for takeoff and landing of aircraft. Runways are usually paved (asphalt or concrete), but may also be grass, gravel, or other materials at smaller or non-commercial airfields.
26
08
Apron
Runways are marked, numbered, and lighted according to international standards to ensure safe operations in all visibility conditions.
Runway Numbering
- Runways are numbered based on their magnetic orientation, rounded to the nearest 10 degrees
- The number is always two digits (e.g., 09 = 90°, 27 = 270°)
- A single runway used in both directions will have reciprocal numbers (e.g., runway 09/27)
- In airports with parallel runways, letters are added: L (left), C (center), R (right)
- Example: Runway 26L / 08R
Example:
- A runway aligned at 275° magnetic heading will be labeled Runway 28.
- The opposite direction (095°) will be Runway 10.
Runway Length and Width
Runways vary in size depending on the airport's purpose:
| Airport Type | Typical Length |
|---|---|
| International hub | 2500–4000 meters |
| Regional airport | 1200–2500 meters |
| Small GA field | 600–1000 meters |
| Grass strip | 200–600 meters |
Widths vary from 18 to 60 meters, depending on aircraft size and category.
Runway Components and Markings
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Threshold | Beginning of the usable runway, marked with stripes |
| Runway Designator | Large white numbers showing heading |
| Centerline | Dashed white line down the middle |
| Touchdown Zone | Marked with rectangular bars for landing aim point |
| Side Stripes | White lines marking the runway edge |
| Displaced Threshold | Usable for taxi/takeoff, but not landing; marked with arrows |
| Stopway | Area beyond runway end, not for regular use, for emergencies only |
Runway Lighting (at night or low visibility)
| Light Type | Function |
|---|---|
| Edge Lights | White lights outlining runway sides |
| Threshold Lights | Green at beginning; red at opposite end |
| Centerline Lights | White (or red/white near the end) in precision runways |
| Runway End Identifier Lights (REILs) | Flashing white lights to mark runway start |
| Touchdown Zone Lights (TDZLs) | White lights indicating landing area in CAT II/III runways |
Runway Use and Assignments
Runway use is based on:
- Wind direction: aircraft usually take off/land into the wind
- Traffic flow and separation
- Noise abatement procedures
- ATC sequencing
The “Runway in use” is typically announced in the ATIS and assigned by Tower.
Phraseology Examples
- “Cleared for takeoff runway 08”
- “Cleared to land runway 27”
- “Line up and wait runway 09”
- “Cross runway 16, report vacated”