Taxiways, designated paths for aircraft movement on an airport, are marked with signs to guide pilots. The sign indicating the end of a taxiway is typically a large yellow sign with a black border and the word “END” in bold letters. This sign is placed at the physical end of the taxiway and serves as a clear indication for pilots to stop or turn their aircraft. Understanding this sign is crucial for safe and efficient airport operations, ensuring that aircraft can navigate taxiways correctly and avoid potential hazards.
Yellow Arcs and Bars
Yellow arcs and bars are used to indicate the end of a taxiway and should be followed by the applicable markings for a stopway or runway.
- Yellow Arcs: These are located at the end of a taxiway and are used to indicate a stop, hold-short, or give-way point.
- Yellow Bars: These are located at the holding position on the taxiway to a runway and after a stop bar at the end of a runway.
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yellow Arcs | Stop, hold-short, or give-way point |
| Yellow Bars | Holding position or end of runway |
Striped End
The striped end of a taxiway is a series of alternating yellow and black stripes. This sign indicates that the taxiway is coming to an end and that aircraft should be prepared to stop. The striped end is typically located at the intersection of the taxiway and a runway or apron.
The striped end is an important safety feature. It helps to ensure that aircraft do not overshoot the end of the taxiway and enter a runway or apron without authorization. The striped end also helps to indicate the direction of travel.
Runway Hold Short Sign
The end of a taxiway is indicated by the Runway Hold Short Sign. This sign is a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black border and the words “HOLD SHORT OF” written in black letters. The sign is placed on the taxiway at the point where aircraft are required to stop and wait for clearance to enter the runway.
Purpose of the Runway Hold Short Sign
- To prevent aircraft from entering the runway without clearance from air traffic control.
- To ensure that aircraft are properly spaced before entering the runway.
- To reduce the risk of runway incursions.
Placement of the Runway Hold Short Sign
The Runway Hold Short Sign is typically placed on the taxiway at the following locations:
- At the intersection of a taxiway and a runway.
- At the end of a taxiway that leads to a runway.
- At any other location where aircraft are required to stop and wait for clearance to enter the runway.
Types of Runway Hold Short Signs
There are two types of Runway Hold Short Signs:
- Mandatory Hold Short Sign: This sign is a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black border and the words “HOLD SHORT OF” written in black letters. It is used to indicate that aircraft must stop and wait for clearance before entering the runway.
- Discretionary Hold Short Sign: This sign is a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a black border and the words “HOLD SHORT OF” written in white letters. It is used to indicate that aircraft may stop and wait for clearance before entering the runway, but they are not required to do so.
Importance of the Runway Hold Short Sign
The Runway Hold Short Sign is an important safety device that helps to prevent runway incursions. Pilots must be familiar with the location and meaning of the Runway Hold Short Sign and must always comply with its instructions.
| Type | Description | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory Hold Short Sign | Yellow diamond-shaped sign with black border and “HOLD SHORT OF” in black letters | Aircraft must stop and wait for clearance before entering the runway |
| Discretionary Hold Short Sign | Yellow diamond-shaped sign with black border and “HOLD SHORT OF” in white letters | Aircraft may stop and wait for clearance before entering the runway, but are not required to do so |
Dash Markings: Indicating the End of a Taxiway
Taxiway dash markings are essential visual indicators that delineate the end of a taxiway. These markings provide clear guidance to pilots during taxiing operations, ensuring safe and efficient movement on airport surfaces.
Characteristics of Dash Markings
- Yellow or white dashed lines
- Typically 15 feet long and 6 inches wide
- Placed perpendicular to the taxiway centerline
- Spaced at regular intervals, typically 10 feet apart
Purpose of Dash Markings
Dash markings at the end of a taxiway serve multiple purposes:
- Indicate the physical boundary of the taxiway, beyond which aircraft should not proceed.
- Provide visual guidance to pilots, especially during low visibility or night operations.
- Alert pilots to the proximity of potential hazards, such as intersecting runways or other taxiways.
- Facilitate orderly and safe flow of aircraft traffic by clearly defining the taxiway limits.
Location of Dash Markings
Dash markings are typically placed at the following locations:
| Location | Markings |
|---|---|
| End of a taxiway | Single row of dash markings |
| Intersection of two taxiways | Double row of dash markings |
| Beginning of a hold-short line | Single row of dash markings preceded by a solid stop line |
Importance of Dash Markings
Observing and adhering to dash markings is crucial for the safe operation of aircraft on taxiways. By clearly defining the taxiway limits, dash markings prevent aircraft from inadvertently entering unauthorized areas or crossing active runways. This helps maintain proper separation and minimizes the risk of accidents.
Well, there you have it! The mystery of the taxiway sign has been solved. Next time you’re at the airport, you can navigate the taxiways like a pro. Thanks for reading, and come back soon for more aviation insights. Fly safe, friends!