Runway Incursion

Definition

A runway incursion is any unauthorized presence of an aircraft, vehicle, person, or object on a runway that compromises or has the potential to compromise safety. ICAO defines it as:
“Any occurrence at an aerodrome involving the incorrect presence of an aircraft, vehicle or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and take-off of aircraft.”

Runway incursions are considered serious safety incidents and are a leading cause of aviation accidents and near misses on the ground.

Types of Runway Incursions

CategoryDescription
Pilot deviationAircraft enters/crosses runway without ATC clearance
ATC errorATC gives conflicting or incorrect instructions
Vehicle deviationGround vehicle enters runway unauthorized
Pedestrian deviationPerson enters active runway area

Common Causes

  • Misunderstood or incorrect readbacks
  • Failure to comply with hold short instructions
  • Distraction during taxi or in low visibility
  • Lack of situational awareness
  • Poor ground signage or lighting
  • Fatigue, language barriers, or training gaps

Examples of Runway Incursions

  • Aircraft crosses a runway during another aircraft’s landing roll
  • Vehicle enters runway to inspect lights without tower clearance
  • Pilot lines up without receiving takeoff clearance
  • Ground crew walks across runway during active operations

Phraseology That Helps Prevent Incursions

SituationPhraseology
Holding short“Hold short runway 27” – must be read back exactly
Lining up“Line up and wait runway 09” – does not mean take off
Crossing“Cross runway 08, report vacated” – only proceed when clear
Uncertainty“Confirm cleared to cross runway 34?” – always ask if unsure

ATC Tools to Prevent Incursions

  • Stop bars: Red in-ground lights at holding points
  • Runway status lights: Automated warning systems
  • Ground radar (SMR): Detects unauthorized movements
  • Standardized phraseology: Reduces misunderstanding

Pilot Best Practices

  • ✅ Brief the taxi route before taxiing
  • ✅ Verify clearances and runway identifiers visually
  • ✅ Use progressive taxi instructions if confused
  • ✅ Maintain high vigilance in low visibility
  • ✅ Repeat critical instructions verbatim
  • ✅ Turn on transponder with Mode C or S while taxiing

Reporting and Consequences

  • All runway incursions are reportable events and may trigger safety investigations.
  • Penalties can range from retraining to license action, depending on severity.
  • Reporting systems (e.g., ASRS, ECCAIRS) encourage pilots to self-report for safety analysis.

Remember

“No aircraft, vehicle, or person shall enter a runway without a valid ATC clearance.”