Federal Aviation Administration

Runway Safety - Resources

ATM Resources

Keep your construction project safe and on track by utilizing the FAA Construction checklist, FAA Best Practices, and sample communications used on previous construction projects.

If you need or would like additional information on Runway Construction Best Practices Contact a member of the Construction Best Practices Working Group:

Advisor Organization Location Email
James Krieger ATO Chicago, IL jim.e.krieger@faa.gov
David Siewert ATO New York, NY david.siewert@faa.gov
Paul Erway ATO Fort Worth, TX paul.erway@faa.gov
Edward Jarvis AFS HQ - Washington DC ed.jarvis@faa.gov
John Bollin AFS HQ - Washington DC john.bollin@faa.gov
Kenneth Jacobs ARP HQ - Washington DC ken.jacobs@faa.gov
George Legarreta ARP HQ - Washington DC george.legarreta@faa.gov

Best Practices for AIRFIELD 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.

REMEMBER:  WHEN IN DOUBT, ASK!

Best Practices for Airfield Safety - Vehicle Drivers

  1. Review and understand airfield signage and markings.
  2. Review the airport diagram prior to moving the vehicle.� Have the airport diagram out and available for immediate reference while driving in the operational area.
  3. Review current airfield information for any taxiway closures, runway closures, construction activity, or other surface risks.
  4. Ensure appropriate vehicle lights (high beams, flashers, beacons, and strobes) are operational prior to driving in the operational area.� Flashers and beacons help ATC, aircrew and other vehicle operators see vehicles in the operational area, especially during periods of reduced visibility and at night.
  5. Use service roads whenever possible to minimize time spent on taxiways and runways.
  6. During radio transmissions, use correct terminology and proper voice cadence.
  7. Copy your clearance and review the assigned route.� Read back all clearances.

Back to Runway Safety Page

Page Last Modified: 07/07/10 10:21 EDT

This page can be viewed online at: http://www.faa.gov/airports/runway_safety/resources/