Runway
Definition
A defined rectangular area on an airport prepared for the takeoff and landing of aircraft. Runways are numbered based on their magnetic heading, divided by 10.
Related Terms
Taxiway
A defined path at an airport for aircraft to taxi between runways, terminals, and parking areas. Taxiways are identified by letters and lit with blue edge lights.
Threshold
The beginning of the portion of a runway available for landing. Marked with white stripes, it indicates the point where aircraft should touch down.
Touchdown Zone
The first 3,000 feet of a runway, measured from the threshold, which is the target area for aircraft to make initial contact during landing.
Related Guides
How Airports Work: From Runway to Gate
Complete overview of airport operations. Runways, air traffic control, ground handling, baggage systems, and terminal management explained.
Why Runways Are Numbered the Way They Are
Runway numbering based on magnetic heading. How parallel runway suffixes (L/C/R) work and why numbers change over time.
Airport Runway Operations: How Planes Take Off and Land
Runway selection, ILS approaches, visual vs instrument landing, and the technology that enables safe takeoffs and landings.
Airport Lighting Explained: What All Those Lights Mean
Runway lights (PAPI, VASI), taxiway lights, approach lighting, and the color-coded system that guides pilots at night.
Aviation During Wartime: Military to Civilian Conversion
How World War II accelerated aviation technology. The conversion of military aircraft and infrastructure to civilian use.