Pilot/Controller Glossary
11/3/22
execute an instrument approach procedure. A
Runway Profile Descent may apply to more than one
runway if so stated on the chart.
(Refer to AIM.)
RUNWAY SAFETY AREA
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A defined surface
surrounding the runway prepared, or suitable, for
reducing the risk of damage to airplanes in the event
of an undershoot, overshoot, or excursion from the
runway. The dimensions of the RSA vary and can be
determined by using the criteria contained within
AC 150/5300-13, Airport Design, Chapter 3.
Figure 3
−
1 in AC 150/5300-13 depicts the RSA. The
design standards dictate that the RSA shall be:
a.
Cleared, graded, and have no potentially
hazardous ruts, humps, depressions, or other surface
variations;
b.
Drained by grading or storm sewers to prevent
water accumulation;
c.
Capable, under dry conditions, of supporting
snow removal equipment, aircraft rescue and
firefighting equipment, and the occasional passage of
aircraft without causing structural damage to the
aircraft; and,
d.
Free of objects, except for objects that need to
be located in the runway safety area because of their
function. These objects shall be constructed on low
impact resistant supports (frangible mounted struc-
tures) to the lowest practical height with the frangible
point no higher than 3 inches above grade.
(Refer to AC 150/5300-13, Airport Design,
Chapter 3.)
RUNWAY STATUS LIGHTS (RWSL) SYSTEM
−
The RWSL is a system of runway and taxiway
lighting to provide pilots increased situational
awareness by illuminating runway entry lights (REL)
when the runway is unsafe for entry or crossing, and
take-off hold lights (THL) when the runway is unsafe
for departure.
RUNWAY TRANSITION
−
(See SEGMENTS OF A SID/STAR)
RUNWAY TRANSITION WAYPOINT
−
(See SEGMENTS OF A SID/STAR.)
RUNWAY USE PROGRAM
−
A noise abatement
runway selection plan designed to enhance noise
abatement efforts with regard to airport communities
for arriving and departing aircraft. These plans are
developed into runway use programs and apply to all
turbojet aircraft 12,500 pounds or heavier; turbojet
aircraft less than 12,500 pounds are included only if
the airport proprietor determines that the aircraft
creates a noise problem. Runway use programs are
coordinated with FAA offices, and safety criteria
used in these programs are developed by the Office of
Flight Operations. Runway use programs are
administered by the Air Traffic Service as “Formal”
or “Informal” programs.
a.
Formal Runway Use Program
−
An approved
noise abatement program which is defined and
acknowledged in a Letter of Understanding between
Flight Operations, Air Traffic Service, the airport
proprietor, and the users. Once established, participa-
tion in the program is mandatory for aircraft operators
and pilots as provided for in 14 CFR Section 91.129.
b.
Informal Runway Use Program
−
An approved
noise abatement program which does not require a
Letter of Understanding, and participation in the
program is voluntary for aircraft operators/pilots.
RUNWAY VISUAL RANGE (RVR)
−
(See VISIBILITY.)
RwyCC
−
(See RUNWAY CONDITION CODES.)
RwyCR
−
(See RUNWAY CONDITION REPORT.)
PCG R
−
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