Overcome Aviation Safety Top Challenges: Runway Safety and Incursions with the FAA

In February 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Safety Call to Action to take a critical look at the U.S. aerospace system’s structure, culture, processes, systems, and integration of safety efforts. The FAA and the aviation community are pursuing a goal of zero serious close calls by examining a combination of technical and human factors.  

FAA Ground Safety for Airfields 

A runway incursion occurs whenever an unauthorized aircraft, vehicle, or person is present in the airport movement area (runway or taxiway). This poses a significant risk of collision for airplanes during takeoff or landing. 

The number and rate of serious runway incursions have steadily declined since the pandemic. Some factors for this include: 

• Clearer labeling: The use of proper label solutions on runways improved visibility and communication, reducing the likelihood of incursions. 

• Enhanced safety protocols: Airports implemented stricter safety measures in recent years. 

• Improved technology: Increased adoption of advanced monitoring systems reduced human error. 

In the first three months of 2024, the rate of serious incidents (Category A and B) decreased by 59 percent from the same period in 2023, from 0.56 per one million airport operations to 0.23 per one million operations. This trend is being challenged by growing demand for rapid aircraft turnaround times exerting additional time pressure on pilots, air traffic control (ATC), and ground personnel. 

The Flight Safety Foundation estimates that ramp accidents cost airlines over $10 billion annually, with 27,000 incidents occurring worldwide each year—equating to one incident per 1,000 departures. These incidents include personal injuries and damage to aircraft and facilities. Airlines bear the full cost of ground damage due to the power held by large handling companies. 

Deploy Compliant Airfield Vehicle Visual Communication Marking 

Effective vehicle visual communication marking prevents runway incursions by aiding communication and identification of vehicles by pilots, personnel, and ATC. 

All airfield vehicles must: 

• Be painted and marked in contrasting, conspicuous colors visible from both ground and air 
• Be marked or flagged for high visibility during daytime, and, if applicable, nighttime operations (Refer to FAA AC 150/5210-5D, Painting, Marking, and Lighting of Vehicles Used on an Airport) 
• Display identification numbers or a company logo 
• Have a flashing yellow beacon 
• Use a minimum 8-inch-wide horizontal band of high gloss white paint or white reflective tape around the vehicle's surface for improved nighttime recognition (Retroreflective, ASTM-D 4956-09, Standard Specification for Retroreflective Sheeting for Traffic Control, Type III & above) 

There are also specific vehicle marking requirements for different vehicle types. 

Airport Emergency Vehicles such as Ambulances, should be marked following Federal Specification KKK-A-1822.  ARFF Vehicles must be marked with "ARFF," "Fire," or "Rescue" and follow 4.c.(1)-(5) of AC 150/5210-5D 

Airport Operations Vehicles should have the required markings designated by the airport operator, coordinated with ATC, and documented in the tower letter of agreement. 

Airfield Service & Aircraft Support Vehicles must display an I.D. number on each side and the roof (or hood if no roof) in a minimum of 16 inches (side) and 24 inches (roof) in height, with a contrasting color. 

Towbarless Tow Vehicles (TLTVs) should outline the vehicle shape with retroreflective tape, ensuring visibility in both horizontal and vertical planes, except where operational activities may wear down the tape. 

Airport Security and other vehicles must have a flag attached for visibility unless escorted by a vehicle in constant two-way radio communication with ATC. Flags must be provided at airports without ATC facilities, measuring at least 3 feet by 3 feet, with a checkered pattern of international orange and white squares at least 1 foot on each side. 

Safety Signs, Safety Labels, and Ground/Floor Markings 

Visual communication is not limited to vehicle marking. Effective signage, hazard communication labels, and wayfinding improve overall safety and efficiency. There are unique challenges for airfield safety that can be overcome by engaging visual communication best practices. 

Safety Signs: Safety signs provide clear and concise instructions and warnings to airport personnel and passengers. 

• Place signs at strategic locations, such as entrances to restricted areas, near hazardous equipment, and along pathways. 

• Use standardized symbols and colors to ensure immediate recognition and understanding. 

• Use durable materials to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic. 

• Include reflective elements for visibility in low-light conditions. 

Safety Labels: Safety labels are used on equipment, containers, and other objects to convey important safety information. 

• Labels should be highly visible and placed on all relevant items, including fuel containers, electrical equipment, and hazardous materials. 

• Use clear, legible text and standardized icons to communicate the nature of the hazard and the necessary precautions. 

• Print on materials resistant to fading, abrasion, and chemical exposure to maintain their effectiveness over time. 

• Comply with relevant regulations and standards, such as those set by the FAA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 

Ground/Floor Markings: Ground and floor markings—like floor tape—guide vehicles and personnel safely around the airfield.  

• Apply durable, high-contrast paint or floor tape to ensure longevity and visibility. 

• Include runway and taxiway markings, vehicle pathways, pedestrian walkways, and designated parking areas. 

• Maintain visual communication markings regularly to prevent fading and ensure that all markings remain clear and easily distinguishable. 

• Follow the guidelines outlined in FAA Advisory Circulars, such as AC 150/5340-1M, Standards for Airport Markings. 

Implement comprehensive safety measures, including compliant vehicle marking, safety signs, safety labels, and ground/floor markings, to significantly reduce the risk of runway incursions and enhance overall safety on the airfield. 

DuraLabel Signage Solutions Compliant with the FAA 

DuraLabel Industrial Sign and Label Print Systems are known for producing durable, high-quality labels and signs for a variety of applications. These printers can create a wide range of clear, long-lasting custom industrial labels, that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including: 

• Safety labels: For indicating hazards, safety instructions, and emergency information. 
• Pipe markers: For labeling pipes with contents and flow direction. 
• Floor marking: For delineating walkways, hazardous areas, and storage zones. 
• Equipment labels: For identifying machinery and equipment, including operational instructions and maintenance schedules. 
• GHS labels: For chemical labeling in compliance with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). 

Explore the full line of label materials, software, and accessories to support different labeling needs and regulatory compliance by speaking with one of our safety consultants at 1-888-342-3164. 

Looking to learn more about creating a visually enhanced aviation facility? Download the free DuraLabel Visual Workplace Management Guide. This guide helps identify areas for improvement and takes the necessary steps to implement effective visual solutions. 

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