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.

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”