PIF 07-09

SAFETYGRAM

July 07

RUNWAY INCURSIONS

A recent safety notice from the FAA has brought runway incursions to the forefront once again. This year, runway incursions are up significantly. Last year at this time there had been 117 incursion events. So far there have been 139 incursion events this year, up by nearly 19% from last year. These include entering a runway or crossing runway hold bars without ATC clearance, being issued (and reading back) hold short instructions and then entering the runway, landing without ATC clearance, departing without ATC clearance, and departing from the wrong runway. So far this year there have been only close calls, but the potential for accident is extremely high when pilots are entering runway environments without clearance. The best way to avoid the accident potential is to avoid the runway incursion in the first place. The AOPA safety foundation offers the following recommended practices to avoid runway incursions and protect yourself from the mistakes of others as well.

1. Review taxi routes for departure and destination airports. Make a note of any possible conflict points. (Crossing runways, parallel runways, etc.) Use extra vigilance in these areas.

2. Listen to your instructions. They may be different than what you were expecting.

3. Read back all taxi instructions. This ensures that what you heard is what they said.

4. Confirm permission to cross any and all runways prior to crossing them if there is any doubt that you are allowed to cross, and take a good look for traffic before you enter the runway.

5. Carry an airport diagram with you for any airport you will operate into or out of.

6. Ask for progressive taxi if you are not sure of where you should go or where you are.

7. Always look for traffic before entering a runway. Make sure with your own eyes there is no conflict.

8. Check for traffic on intersecting runways as well as the one you intend to use before takeoff and before landing.

9. Be extra vigilant when operating at airports with parallel runways. Be aware of the possible confusion between left and right designations.

10. Be familiar with relevant taxiway and runway signage and markings.

I highlighted several statements above. There are three “Look (or check) for traffic” references. This is very important. Even if you have clearance, someone else may be incurring on the runway. See them before entering the runway! Ask, listen, read back, and confirm are also mentioned. These ensure the pilot knows what is expected and where to go. Finally, be vigilant! Keep situational awareness as high as possible. Use the tools to avoid the incursion and keep in mind other pilots may not be a vigilant as you. Have a great month and…..

FLY SAFE!