Requirements
The key requirements are summarised as follows. The detailed specifications for each aspect are contained in the Construction section and also in our Airstrips Specification.
The preferred runway size for RFDS aircraft to be able to land and take-off under almost all weather conditions is 1200 metres in length. We are able to operate out of shorter runways but we may be operationally restricted as a consequence eg. reduced fuel load restricting range. The runway direction should be aligned with the prevailing wind direction.
To facilitate our aircraft landing both day and night, the width must be a minimum of 90 metres and should be clear of trees, stumps, saplings, ant hills or any other obstacles. If only day operations are anticipated, the width can be reduced to 45 metres but this is not recommended unless there is a night-capable airstrip nearby that can be used in a medical emergency.
The centre 18 metres (20 metres is preferred) which is used by the aircraft under normal operations must be a firm smooth surface which a heavily sprung vehicle can be driven over at a speed no less than 80 kph without undue discomfort to the occupant - this will not impede the take off or landing of aircraft.
From the edge of the runway, the area each side out to 22.5 metres from the runway centre-line needs to be cleared to ensure minimal damage to an aeroplane if it were to run off the runway during take off or landing.
The remaining area outside 22.5 metres of each side may be flown over by an aircraft in the event of a missed approach or go-around. It should therefore be free of tree stumps, large rocks or stones, fencing, wire and any other obstacles above ground but may include ditches or drains below ground level.
The areas at the ends of the runway which are over-flown by aircraft on approach and take-off must be clear of any obstructions such as trees, fences or power lines that would otherwise reduce the effective operational length of the runway and pose a safety hazard.
Ideally it should be possible to park the aircraft off the runway to avoid interrupting other operations and possible safety concerns. A parking apron should be constructed in a location which is both convenient to the runway and also readily accessible by ground transport, and at a distance from the runway such that aircraft and vehicles do not pose a hazard to any other aircraft using the runway.
A windsock is needed to indicate the wind strength and direction to our pilots when they are approaching the airstrip and this ideally is located adjacent to the parking apron.
The runway strip, apron and any taxiways needs to be marked so that all are clearly visible to pilots, particularly when they are coming into land.
Lighting of the runway, taxiway, windsock and parking apron is also required for night operations.