European safety regulators are proposing to update airport design requirements which will include formally narrowing the required runway width for high-capacity transport aircraft.
The European Aviation Safety Agency has put forward the amendments in a notice of proposed rulemaking, which remains open to consultation until 31 May.
EASA says the changes are intended to align airport design criteria with those of ICAO's Annex 14, and to take into account methodological, operational and technological changes.
It states that the proposals, particularly relating to aerodrome reference codes, are predicted to generate "significant cost savings" for the higher-category airports by cutting construction and maintenance expenditure.
Large aircraft will also be able to operate at airports with infrastructure that currently does not meet particular thresholds, it adds, providing "greater opportunities for the airlines".
EASA is proposing to reduce the recommended runway width for code F aircraft – which include the Airbus A380 – from 60m to 45m, a figure founded on a new aircraft category based on outer main-gear wheel span.
The authority states that studies of ground manoeuvring show that large aircraft deviate from runway centrelines less than smaller ones.
"Technological advancements in modern aircraft…allow for better guidance and control, thus maintaining a more precise alignment along the centreline of a runway," it adds.
EASA's proposals also include new criteria on taxiway separation as well as updated guidance on runway markings, lighting, and installation of autonomous runway incursion warning systems.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
