3. EU AGA - Aerodrome Physical Characteristics

Question 1

What is a Runway Strip? (2)

Answer 1

An area enclosing a runway or any associated stopway

Reduces risk of damage to an aircraft running off the runway by providing graded (smoothed) area meeting specified longitudinal, transverse
slope and bearing strength requirements

Question 2

Runway Strip vs Distances (2)

Answer 2

Precision / Instrument:
Strip encompasses landing distance available (LDA)

Non-Instrument:
Narrower strip encompasses ASDA (TORA + Stopway)

(Take-off is a visual manoeuvre covered by the dimensions of a Non-Instrument strip)

Question 3

Strip dimensions (Diagram)

Answer 3

Question 4

What is a Cleared & Graded area? (2)

Answer 4

An area within the runway strip whose dimensions are determined by the function of the strip in which it lies

Only obstacles which are small and frangible and will not aggravate the consequences of an aircraft ground swing are allowed in the area

e.g. runway lights and PAPIS

Question 5

Cleared & Graded area dimensions (Diagram)

Answer 5

Question 6

Code 3 or 4 Instrument Runway
(No displaced Threshold) - Diagram

Answer 6

Question 7

When should a runway be withdrawn or declared distances restricted? (1)

Answer 7

If there is an obstacle which cannot be removed within the cleared and graded area

Question 8

Taxiways have the same strip and cleared & graded area protection as runway True or False?

Answer 8

True

Question 9

Holding positions or bays no closer to centreline than edge of cleared and graded area on precision runways distance increased to avoid? (3)

Answer 9

• Interference with ILS sensitive areas
• Penetration of obstacle free zone (OFZ)
• Holding aeroplane being accountable in calculation of OCH/A

Question 10

What weight does the ACN/PCN system provide for classifying pavement bearing strength? (1)

Answer 10

A/C >5700kg MTOM

Question 11

What is ACN? (3)

Answer 11

ACN - Aircraft Classification Number

• The ACN is a number expressing the relative effect of an aircraft load on a pavement for a specified sub-grade
• The tables give ACN values for two weights, one at MTOM and a lower representative operating weight empty

Question 12

What is PCN? (3)

Answer 12

PCN - Pavement classification Number

• The PCN is a number expressing the bearing strength of a pavement for unrestricted operations. They are reported in the AD Section of the AIP as a five part code
• Apart from the numerical value, the report includes the type of pavement and the sub grade support strength category

Question 13

PCN Coding diagram + example

Answer 13

PCN 5 part code example

PCN: 80/R/B/W/T