A pilot is approaching an airport that has an operating control tower and observes a runway with a series of white arrows leading up to a solid white line, followed by the normal runway markings. What does this indicate?
- AThe optimal touchdown zone for landing aircraft.
- BA taxiway that leads to the active runway.
- CA displaced threshold, where the area with arrows is not available for landing.
- DThe runway is permanently closed.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A displaced threshold, where the area with arrows is not available for landing.
A displaced threshold is indicated by a white solid line across the runway with white arrows leading up to it. The area before the solid line, marked with arrows, is available for taxiing, takeoff, and rollout from a landing in the opposite direction, but not for the initial touchdown on landing in the direction of the arrows. This is often due to an obstruction or other factors requiring the landing portion of the runway to be shifted.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The optimal touchdown zone is marked by the aiming point (two thick white stripes), not arrows.
- B. Taxiways have yellow markings and do not typically lead to a runway with arrows like this.
- D. A closed runway is indicated by a yellow 'X' marking.
Displaced Threshold Marking
A displaced threshold is a runway marking with a solid white line across the runway and white arrows leading up to it. The area before the solid line is not available for landing, but can be used for taxi, takeoff, or rollout.
- Marking: Solid white line with white arrows leading to it.
- Purpose: Reduces the length of runway available for landing.
- Area before line: Usable for taxi, takeoff, and rollout (from opposite direction).
- Area before line: NOT usable for initial landing touchdown.
Memory trick: Lines and arrows guide your way, but some areas mean 'stay away' for landing.