Runway Configuration
The active runway arrangement at an airport, which determines arrival and departure capacity and rates.
What is Runway Configuration?
Runway configuration refers to which runways an airport is using for arrivals and departures and in which direction. Configurations change based on wind direction (aircraft prefer to land and take off into the wind), noise abatement procedures, and operational requirements. Different configurations have different capacity limits - some allow more simultaneous operations than others. Configuration changes can temporarily reduce capacity as ATC transitions between setups.
Common Causes
- Wind direction changes
- Noise abatement requirements
- Runway maintenance or closures
- Weather conditions (visibility, ceiling)
- Traffic demand patterns
Impact & Duration
Impact Level
Low to Medium - Configuration changes can temporarily reduce arrival/departure rates
Typical Duration
Configuration changes take 15-30 minutes; new configuration may last hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does runway configuration matter for delays?
Different configurations have different capacity. An optimal configuration might handle 60 arrivals per hour, while a wind-required configuration might only handle 45. This 25% reduction can cause significant delays during busy periods.
Who decides the runway configuration?
Air traffic control determines runway configuration based on wind, weather, noise requirements, and traffic demand. Controllers work to use the most efficient configuration possible while meeting all operational requirements.
Related Terms
Arrival Delays
Delays affecting inbound flights at an airport, typically measured as additional time beyond scheduled arrival.
Departure Delays
Delays affecting outbound flights from an airport, measured as additional time beyond scheduled departure.
Volume Delays
Delays caused by air traffic demand exceeding the airport's or airspace's capacity to handle flights.
Check for Active Delays
See if any airports currently have this type of delay active.
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