Safety Net

RUNWAY SAFETY
Runway safety is a major concern for the aviation industry. The reduction in runway
incursions represents an opportunity to enhance runway safety.
ICAO defines a runway incursion to be any occurrence at an
aerodrome involving the incorrect presence of an aircraft, vehicle
or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the
landing and take off of aircraft (ICAO Doc 4444PANS-ATM).

What can you do to prevent

runwayincursions?

Why do runway incursions occur?

Take the time to thoroughly plan the surface movement of

your flight

inattention or distraction
poor visibility on the aerodrome
aerodrome complexity
use of non-standard phraseology leading to confusion or
misunderstanding between pilots and ATC
call-sign confusion leading to pilots acting on an ATC
instruction intended for another aircraft
inadequate, confusing or a lack of knowledge regarding
aerodrome signage, markings or lights
loss of ATC and/or pilot situational awareness
aerodrome construction work.

Use a current aerodrome chart for planning and have it

available during taxi
Identify when you need to be in heads up mode on
theaerodrome
Taxi procedures
Whenever possible, obtain your Airways clearance prior to
requesting your taxi clearance.
Write down taxi instructions, especially those that
arecomplex
All runways are considered active at all times and require a
specific ATC clearance to enter or cross.
Exercise caution if another aircraft has a similar
soundingcallsign
Read back all required instructions/clearances with
yourcallsign

13-044SEP Corporate Communication

Factors increasing the risk of runway incursions include:

Planning your aerodrome operation

Situational awareness

Aerodrome markings, signs and lights

Ensure you understand and follow all ATC clearances

andinstructions

Ensure you understand the meaning of visual aids on the

aerodrome including markings, signs and lights

Monitor the radio and use a current aerodrome chart

to assist you locating other aircraft and vehicles on
theaerodrome

DO NOT cross an illuminated stop bar

Advise ATC as early as possible if you anticipate a delay or

are unable to comply with their instructions
DO NOT allow yourself to be distracted by matters not
directly related to the flight
Aircraft lights
Use the exterior aircraft lights to make your aircraft
moreconspicuous
Communications
Use standard phraseology and pay close attention to ATC
instructions when taxiing
Prepare what you are going to say prior to using the radio.
Say it clearly and concisely and acknowledge all clearances
Listen out before transmitting to ensure you do not
overtransmit or interrupt another station
If you have any doubt about an instruction or clearance,
always seek clarification from ATC

The Runway Safety Group (RSG) - making runways

saferfor you

The RSG consists of representatives from across Australias

aviation industry and government agencies. The objective of the
RSG is to enhance the operations in and around all runways at
locations where Airservices provides a service.
As part of the RSG structure, Local Runway Safety Teams
have been established at most towered airports to enhance
runwaysafety.

For more information

Safety Services
Email: runway.safety@airservicesaustralia.com