Assignment

Classifications of Airport Airfield Components

 Classifications of Airport Airfield Components

There are various components of an airport which are structures. The planning and
designing of these Airport components are carried out by civil and structural
engineers.

1. Runway
2. Taxiway
3. Apron
4. Terminal building
5. Control tower
6. Hanger
7. Parking
1. Runway

Runway – a strip of land with a solid surface on which take-off and landing
operations of aircraft are carried out. It is level with no obstructions. Runways have
special markings that distinguish them from normal driveways. Likewise, after
sunset, specially provided lighting helps the aircraft to land safely.

Many factors are considered when designing a runway. The direction of the runway
must be in the direction of the wind. Occasionally crosswinds may occur, so for
safety reasons, the second lane should be installed perpendicular to the mainline.

The number of runways at the airport depends on traffic conditions. If traffic moves
more than 30 times per hour, another runway must be provided. Runways can be
laid using bitumen or concrete. Although bitumen is economical, concrete runways
have longer spans and require less maintenance. The width of the runway depends
on the maximum size of the aircraft using the runway. The length of a runway is
determined by various considerations such as ground clearance, air temperature,
take-off altitude, and slope.
 Airport Runway
Different runway patterns:

Single runway
Two runways
Hexagonal runway
45-degree runway
60-degree runway
60-degree parallel runway
Single Runway:

A single runway is the most common type. This is sufficient for low-traffic or
occasional use airports. This runway lies in the direction of the wind in this particular
area.

Two Runway:

The two runways consist of two runways positioned in different directions to account
for crosswinds or wind conditions in a particular area. Runways can be L-shaped, T-
shaped, or X-shaped.
Hexagonal Runway:

This is a modern example of a runway laying system. Where take-off and landing of
aircraft can be permitted at any time without hindrance. Best for high-traffic or
busiest airports.

45 Degree Runway:

A 45-degree runway is selected when the wind range is greater for the same
aerodrome capacity. Also known as a four-lane runway.

60 Degree Runway:

When the winds in this area blow in multiple directions, it is difficult to decide which
direction to lay the runway in. In this case, a 60-degree runway is chosen that looks
like a triangular arrangement of the runway.

2. Taxiway

A taxiway is a route that connects both ends of a runway to an airport terminal,

apron, hanger, etc., and is covered with a runway such as asphalt or concrete. In
modern airports, taxiways are positioned at a 30-degree angle to the runway so that
aircraft can easily move from one runway to another. The turning radius between the
taxiway and the runway should be at least 1.5 times the taxiway width.

Taxiway
3. Apron

An apron is a place used as an aircraft parking space. It is also used for loading and
unloading aircraft. Aprons are usually packed and placed in front of a terminal
building or next to a hanger. The size of the apron area and the design of the apron
are usually dictated by the number of aircraft expected at the airport. The design also
takes into account the characteristics of the aircraft. Adequate drainage must be
provided with a suitable pavement slope. Sufficient clearance must be provided to
allow aircraft to pass through each other.

Airport Apron
4. Terminal Building

The terminal building is where the airport’s administrative offices are located. This
building conducts pre-and post-travel inspections of passengers. Lounges and cafes
are provided for passengers. Passengers can enter the aircraft directly from the
terminal building via bridges, walkways, etc. Likewise, aircraft passengers enter
directly into the terminal building.
 Airport Terminal Building
5. Control Tower

A control tower is a place that controls aircraft in a specific area, whether on the
ground or in the air. Surveillance is performed by the dispatcher using radar and the
information is transmitted wirelessly. The tower’s controller observes all aircraft in the
area and informs the pilot of movements at the airport, landing route, visibility, wind
speed, runway details, etc., and the pilot makes and attempts to make a decision.
safe landing. So the control tower is like the nervous system of an airport.
Airport Control Tower
6. Hanger

A hanger is a place where aircraft are repaired and maintained. A taxiway connects
the hangar to the runway, allowing easy access to the hanger when aircraft need
repair. It was built as a large barn using steel trusses and frames. For hangers, a
large area must be provided for the comfortable movement of aircraft.

Airport Hanger
7. Parking

A designated area for the parking of airport personnel or passenger vehicles is

located outside the terminal building or in the basement of the terminal building.