Glossary
Airport Infrastructure
Tarmac
Definition
A colloquial term for the paved surfaces of an airport, including runways, taxiways, and aprons. Originally referred to tarmacadam paving material.
Related Terms
Apron
The paved area at an airport where aircraft are parked, loaded, unloaded, refueled, and boarded. Also called the ramp, it connects to taxiways and terminal gates.
Runway
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.
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.