Airports worldwide share a universal language of runway markings, crucial for the safe transport of millions of passengers daily. At Heathrow alone, an average of 206,800 people travelled each day last year. These markings, often overlooked by passengers, play a vital role in ensuring aviation safety.
Essential Runway Markings for Airport Operations
Airports utilise various markings for different purposes, from aircraft zones to taxiways and even pedestrian walkways. These markings follow globally standardised principles, enabling pilots to safely navigate any airport worldwide.
1. The Blast Pad
At the runway's start, you'll find the 'blast pad'. This area, typically marked with yellow chevrons, isn't designed to support aircraft weight. Its primary function is to prevent jet blast damage to the surface preceding the runway.
2. The Threshold
Following the blast pad is the threshold, marking the beginning of the usable runway. It's identified by long, thin white markings that pilots use to gauge runway width:
| Runway Width | Number of Stripes |
|---|---|
| 18.3m (60ft) | 4 |
| 22.9m (75ft) | 6 |
| 30.5m (100ft) | 8 |
| 45.7m (150ft) | 12 |
| 61m (200ft) | 16 |
3. Numbers and Letters
Runway identifiers consist of numbers and sometimes letters. Letters (R, C, L) indicate right, centre, or left when multiple parallel runways exist.
4. Deciphering Runway Numbers
Runway numbers correspond to the runway's magnetic heading. For instance, a runway at 214° from magnetic north would be rounded to 210°, then shortened to '21'. The opposite end would be '3' (21 minus 18).
Precision in Runway Markings
Runway markings adhere to strict design standards:
- Characters must be 18.3m (60ft) high, except 6 and 9, which can be 18.9m (62ft).
- A specialised font ensures clear visibility from the air.
- Every detail, down to the slant of the number 1, is engineered for maximum clarity.
Landing Zone Markings
Beyond the identifiers, you'll find:
- Six short parallel white lines
- Two large white rectangles, serving as the pilot's aiming point for landing
High-Visibility Markings
Runway markings require high-visibility paints to ensure clear visibility in all conditions. Learn more about our high-performance runway marking solutions. For expert advice on runway marking paints and applications, contact Meon Ltd at 02392 200 606 or mail@meonuk.com. View our case studies on airport marking projects.
