Runway Use Programs apply to which weight class of aircraft?

• A. Turbojets 14,500 pounds or heavier
• B. All aircraft over 15,000 pounds
• C. All twin-engines over 12,500 pounds
• D. Turbojets 12,500 pounds or heavier

Answer: (D)

Runway Use Programs are focused on the operating specifics of heavier jet aircraft, because they have the most impact on runway capacity and safety. Heavier turbojets require longer takeoff and landing distances, occupy the runway for longer periods, and produce wake turbulence that can affect following aircraft. Limiting these programs to turbojets weighing 12,500 pounds or heavier targets the aircraft that most influence runway management decisions while excluding lighter airplanes that don’t impose the same constraints. The weight threshold of 12,500 pounds for turbojets captures the aircraft types that drive these procedures; using a higher threshold or including all twin-engine or lighter aircraft would unnecessarily complicate or dilute the program.