Airport Operations and Regulations Flashcards

What is a 'displaced threshold' on a runway?

Answer: A threshold moved from the physical end of the runway, with the area before it usable only for taxiing and takeoffs

A displaced threshold is a landing threshold located away from the runway's physical beginning, with the area ahead of it available for taxiing and takeoffs but not landings.

What is the primary purpose of de-icing an aircraft before departure?

Answer: To remove ice, snow, or frost from aircraft surfaces that can impair aerodynamic performance

De-icing removes contamination from aerodynamic surfaces because even a thin layer of frost can disrupt airflow and reduce lift, potentially causing an accident on takeoff.

What is 'pushback' in aircraft ground operations?

Answer: The process of using a tow tractor to push an aircraft from the gate onto the taxiway

Pushback uses a tow tractor attached to the nose landing gear to move the aircraft backward from the gate to a position where it can taxi under its own power.

What does ATIS stand for in airport operations?

Answer: Automatic Terminal Information Service

ATIS is a continuous broadcast of recorded non-control information at busy airports providing weather, runways in use, NOTAMs, and other pertinent data to pilots.

What is a 'slot' at a slot-controlled airport?

Answer: An assigned time for an aircraft to arrive or depart, managed to limit congestion

A slot is an authorization to operate a flight at a specific time at capacity-controlled airports, allocated to manage traffic and reduce delays.

What is the role of a Load Controller (Load Planner) at an airport?

Answer: To calculate and distribute weight and balance of passengers, cargo, and fuel for safe aircraft loading

A Load Controller calculates the weight and balance of an aircraft to ensure it stays within safe center-of-gravity limits and maximum takeoff weight.