Avoiding runway incursions

Even on a clear day, it’s hard for pilots and controllers to see and track the many different-sized airplanes and vehicles moving at an airport. Add bad weather or darkness and the problem can get much worse.

Safety awareness

Here are some suggestions for starting your own ground safety awareness program at an airport. Most of these tips apply both on the ground and in the air.

  • Always communicate clearly and use the proper phraseology
  • Read back clearances with restrictions (altitude, heading, runway number)
    • If you don’t hear them clearly, always ask for clarification; this is a sign of a professional pilot
  • Keep an uncluttered cockpit
  • Avoid idle conversation
  • Listen to the other traffic on your frequency
  • If you aircraft is moving, keep a good lookout
  • Proceed with caution when approaching any other taxiway or runway
  • Don’t move into the active runway while trying to finish your personal safety checklist
  • Be ready when cleared for takeoff
    • When you hesitate in position, you destroy the timing of every controller and pilot who anticipates your action
 

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