Quick Facts
- Type
- Airport Infrastructure
- Definition
- A defined rectangular area on an airport prepared for aircraft takeoff and la...
- Used By
- Pilots, ATC
Definition#
A runway is a defined rectangular area on a land airport prepared for the takeoff and landing of aircraft. Runways are designated by a number that is one-tenth of their magnetic heading (e.g., Runway 27 has a heading of approximately 270°).
Why It Matters Operationally#
Runway length, surface condition, slope, and orientation determine which aircraft can operate and in what conditions. Wind direction in relation to the runway determines crosswind components and active runway selection.
Related Guides#
Related Terms#
See Also
Used in
- Crosswind Explainedguide
- Runway Visual Range (RVR)guide
- Airport Operations 101guide
- How Airlines and Airports Work — The Complete Operational Guideguide
- Airport Ground Operationsdirectory
- Density Altitude Explainedguide
- Flight Delays & Cancellations Explainedguide
- How Jet Engines Work (Turbofan vs Turboprop)guide