Runway excursion is a serious aviation safety issue that can occur when an aircraft veers off the runway during takeoff, landing, or taxiing. Runway excursions can result in injury to crew and passengers, and damage to the aircraft, airport infrastructure, and surrounding areas. In order to prevent runway excursions, it is important to understand what they are and what causes them.
Understanding Runway Excursion
Runway excursions occur when an aircraft leaves the designated runway surface during takeoff, landing, or taxiing. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including pilot error, mechanical failure, or environmental conditions. Runway excursions can be dangerous and can cause serious injury to crew and passengers, and damage to the aircraft, airport infrastructure, and surrounding areas.
Causes of Runway Excursion
Runway excursions can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Pilot Error: Pilot error is one of the most common causes of runway excursions. Poor decision making, inadequate training, or lack of situational awareness can all lead to a runway excursion.
- Mechanical Failure: Mechanical failure can also cause a runway excursion. This can include tire blowouts, brake failure, or engine failure.
- Environmental Conditions: Poor weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice can also cause a runway excursion. Poor visibility can also lead to an aircraft veering off the runway.
Runway excursions can be dangerous and cause serious injury to crew and passengers, and damage to the aircraft, airport infrastructure, and surrounding areas. It is important to be aware of the causes of runway excursions and take steps to minimize the risk of them occurring.