What is the purpose of an overrun area?

The primary purpose of an overrun area is to provide effective deceleration for overshooting aircraft. These designated zones are located at the end of runways and are specifically designed to assist aircraft that may fail to stop within the runway limits during landing or takeoff. The overrun area typically consists of materials that can effectively slow down an aircraft, such as gravel or rolled earth, which cushion the impact and absorb the aircraft's kinetic energy, minimizing the risk of injury to crew and passengers, as well as damage to the aircraft.

The inclusion of overrun areas in airfield design is crucial for enhancing safety, particularly at airports where runway lengths may not accommodate all aircraft types or in adverse weather conditions that could affect braking capabilities. These buffers allow for the safe dispersal of aircraft that may encounter problems during landings, ensuring that they can be effectively decelerated without endangering the surrounding infrastructure or environment.

Understanding the design and function of overrun areas underlines their crucial role in aviation safety protocols.