Risk of collisions on runways
Added to Watchlist on August 16, 2010
Problem
There is ongoing risk that aircraft may collide with vehicles or other aircraft on the ground at Canadian airports.
Background
Airport operations require that aircraft and vehicles move between ramps, taxiways and runways. Sometimes this movement creates conflicts between aircraft or between aircraft and vehicles. This can happen when aircraft or vehicles mistakenly occupy an active take-off or landing area.
In a 10-year period from 1999 to 2008, there were 3831 of these conflicts, known as runway incursions, nationwide.Footnote 1 Given the millions of take-offs and landings each year, incursions are rare; however, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Solution
The TSB has made findings and reported publicly on the risk of collisions on runways.Footnote 2 The Board is concerned that incursions and the risk of collisions will remain until better defences are put in place.
- Improved procedures and the adoption of enhanced collision warning systems are required at Canada's airports.