Runway Safety - Pilots

The best practices were developed by FAA staff to help pilots improve safety by giving guidelines that should be followed to keep skills and focus current and vigilant. Remember: over 80% of pilot- caused runway incursions occur during taxi to the departure runway..

PRE-FLIGHT PLANNING:

1. Review and understand airfield signage and markings.
2. Review the appropriate airport diagrams.  Review any Hot Spots identified on the diagram.  Print a copy for use in the cockpit. 
3. Review airfield NOTAMS and current ATIS for any taxiway closures, runway closures, construction activity, or other airfield specific risks.
4. Brief any passengers on the importance to minimize discussions, questions, and conversation during taxi (maintain a “sterile cockpit”).

TAXI:

1. Have the airport diagram out and available for immediate reference during taxi.
2. Review current ATIS for any taxiway closures, runway closures, construction activity, or other airfield specific risks.
3. During radio transmissions, use correct terminology and proper voice cadence.

• More »

REMEMBER:  WHEN IN DOUBT, ASK!

Air Safety Foundation Learning Tools: The following are tools and resources that can prove beneficial for commercial and general aviation pilots. Pilots should obtain, carry, and use these tools to improve safety while flying.

The FAA Office of Runway Safety and Operational Services, in partnership with the AOPA Air Safety Foundation and ALPA, announces a powerful learning tool to help pilots and maintenance technicians taxiing aircraft avoid runway incursions.

Construction Resources for Pilots

• Best Practices (PDF)
• Construction Notices
• Construction Animations
• Runway Status Lights
• Communication and Advisory How To Guides
  • SaFo (PDF)
  • SaFo Explanation (PDF)
  • InFo (PDF)
  • InFo Explanation (PDF)
• Communication and Advisory Samples
  • JFK Ops During Rwy Closure (PDF)
  • MSP 2009 (MS PowerPoint)
  • MSP OIS Message (MS Word)
  • Industry Best Practices Reference List (PDF)
  • Sample from ORD (PDF)
  • Sample InFo Document #1 (PDF)
  • Sample InFo Document #2 (PDF)
  • Sample InFo Document #3 (PDF)
  • Sample Notice (PDF)
  • Sample Notice #2 (PDF)
  • Sample SaFo - ATL (PDF)
• Additional Materials and Resources
  • Link to ALPA Runway Risks Page
  • General Safety Information
  • Air Traffic Orders and Notices
  • Free Digital Products
  • NOTAM Search
  • Airport Project Advisory Circulars

Airport Diagram Search Tool

• Airport Diagram Search Tool