| Group | Visibility | App len (ft) | App inner (ft) | App outer (ft) | Dep len (ft) | Dep inner (ft) | Dep outer (ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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What is the RPZ?READ · ~40s
The Runway Protection Zone (RPZ) is a trapezoidal surface off each runway end — it enhances protection of people and property on the ground in the event of aircraft undershoot, overshoot, or excursion.
Each runway end has its own approach RPZ and departure RPZ. Dimensions depend on AAC group and visibility minimums per AC 150/5300-13B Appendix G (Tables G-1–G-12).
Per AC 150/5300-13B Appendix G, the RPZ has two functional components: the central portion aligned with the extended runway centerline, and the controlled activity area flanking it. Both are subject to FAA land-use compatibility standards.
Airport sponsors are expected to control land uses within the RPZ, preferably through fee-simple acquisition. Prohibited: residences, places of public assembly, fuel storage. Permitted with conditions: farming (meeting clearance standards), airport service roads, underground utilities, NAVAIDs. Automobile parking is discouraged but may be permitted outside the central portion.
New or revised instrument approach procedure with lower minimums, or change in critical design aircraft that increases RPZ dimensions.
Runway designation rulesOPTIONAL
Runway designators are based on magnetic azimuth rounded to the nearest 10°, with leading zero for numbers below 10 (e.g. 09 / 27, 17L / 35R). The reciprocal end differs by 180° — the tool auto-computes End 2 from End 1, swapping L↔R and keeping C as C.
Labels are decorative — they do not affect RPZ dimensions. Override End 2 freely if magnetic variation or displaced thresholds require it.
Siting — standard vs. declared distances§ 3.13.1
The RPZ begins 200 ft beyond the end of the area usable for takeoff or landing. For a runway end with no displaced threshold or declared distances, this is 200 ft beyond the physical runway end.
When declared distances apply (FAA approval required, reflected on the FAA-approved ALP), two RPZs are required at each runway end: the approach RPZ begins 200 ft before the threshold; the departure RPZ begins 200 ft beyond the far end of TORA. They normally overlap.