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AA.III.A.K4FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Knowledge

Runway markings and lighting.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Runway markings and lighting.

Bottom line

The runway centerline identifies the center of the runway and provides alignment guidance during takeoff and landings. The pilot should ensure that runway numbers on paved runways agree with magnetic compass and heading indicators before beginning takeoff roll.

Key numbers

Key numbers for Runway markings and lighting.
NumberWhat it means
50-foot intervalsCenterline spacing
until last 3,000 feetWhite lights
next 2,000 feetWhite/red alternate
last 1,000 feetAll red
eight longitudinal stripesThreshold stripes

FAA references

  1. PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-5) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. AFH Glossary (p. G-13) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. AFH ch. 2 (p. 2-22) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  4. PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-15) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  5. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-8) — FAA-H-8083-2A
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