10 Ways to Help Prevent Runway Incursion

Reprinted with permission from FAA Aviation News

1. See the 'Big Picture'
Monitor both ground and tower communications when possible.

2. Transmit Clearly
Make your instructions and read backs complete and easy to understand.

3.Listen Carefully
Listen to your clearance. Listen to what you read back. Do not let communications become automatic.

4.Copy Clearances
Clearances can change. Keep a note pad and copy your clearance. If needed, refer to your notes.

5. Situational Awareness
Know your location. If unfamiliar with an airport, keep a current airport diagram available for easy reference.

6. Admit When Lost
If you get lost on an airport, ask ATC for help. Better to damage your pride than your airplane.

7. Sterile Cockpit
Maintain a sterile cockpit until reaching cruising altitude. Explain to your passengers that talking should be kept to a minimum.

8. Understand Signs, Lights, and Markings
Keep current with airport signs, lights and markings. Know what they mean and what action to take.

9. Never Assume
Do not take clearances for granted. Look both ways before entering or crossing taxiways and runways.

10. Follow Procedures
Establish safe procedures for airport operations. Then follow them.