Safety remains paramount in the aviation industry, with ongoing efforts to mitigate various threats. Among these threats, runway incursions stand out as a significant concern, posing risks to both passengers and aviation professionals. This month, we delve into the magnitude of the issue, international efforts to address it, effective mitigation strategies, and how Performance contributes to enhancing aviation safety through its Precision Navigation and MappingTM products.
The Magnitude of the Problem
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representatives implore that runway incursions continue to pose a serious threat to aviation safety. In fiscal year 2023 alone, there were approximately 1,756 total runway incursions out of around 54.4 million takeoffs and landings in the National Airspace System. These incursions were primarily caused by pilot deviations, air traffic controller actions or inactions, and vehicle or pedestrian deviations. The data indicates a slight decrease in the rate of runway incursions over recent years. In fiscal year 2022, there were around 33 incursions per one million takeoffs and landings, whereas in 2023 there were 32 incursions per one million takeoffs and landings.
International Efforts on the Issue
Recognizing the severity of the problem, international organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have prioritized runway incursions as one of the highest-risk categories of events needing mitigation. Efforts such as the Global Action Plan for the Prevention of Runway Incursions (GAPPRI) have been initiated, bringing together experts from various organizations worldwide to develop recommendations aimed at mitigating runway incursion hazards. These recommendations target stakeholders across the aviation industry, emphasizing improvements in human performance, situational awareness technologies, and teamwork among pilots and air traffic controllers.
“Many of the serious incidents [reviewed] could have been avoided through better situational awareness technologies that can help air traffic controllers and pilots detect potential runway conflicts,” the Flight Safety Foundation stated in unveiling the GAPPRI report.
Mitigation Strategies
The FAA and industry have implemented a series of long-term initiatives to reduce runway incursions, emphasizing proactive management strategies and collaborative efforts. Key initiatives include the establishment of the Runway Safety Council (RSC) to foster a culture of safety and the formation of Runway Safety Action Teams (RSAT) to address specific risks at individual airports. The Runway Incursion Mitigation (RIM) program targets airports with a history of incursions, employing various strategies to mitigate risks. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as Runway Status Lights, Airport Surface Detection Equipment, Airport Surface Surveillance, Runway Incursion Warning Systems, and Vehicle ADS-B Transmitters, enhance situational awareness for both controllers and flight crews.
Performance’s Contribution to Aviation Safety
At Performance, we recognize the critical importance of aviation safety. Our Precision Navigation and MappingTM product line plays a vital role in enhancing situational awareness and safety during en-route, take-off, and landing approaches. With sub-meter accuracy, our global Airport and Vertiport Mapping Databases provide reliable data essential for safe navigation. Moreover, our precise data supports autonomous applications and urban air mobility missions, furthering safety in aviation operations.
Airport Map of Sky Harbor Airport located in Phoenix, AZ
Addressing runway incursions requires concerted efforts from stakeholders across the aviation industry. By implementing effective mitigation strategies and leveraging advanced technologies, we can enhance aviation safety and reduce the risk of runway-related incidents. Performance remains committed to advancing aviation safety through innovative solutions and precise navigation and mapping products. Explore our products today to learn more about how we contribute to safer skies.
