FAA Runway Friction Program.ppt

FAA Runway Friction Program HISTORY FAA started conducting runway friction measurement research with NASA and USAF in the late 60s. No direct relation to aircraft performance was found, but devices could be used for determining when runway surface maintenance was needed. WINTER RUNWAY FRICTION MEASUREMENT AND REPORTING WORKING GROUP FAA NASA Transport Canada Airports Council International American Association of Airport Executives Air Transport Association Regional Airline Association Air Line Pilots Association 1995 GROUP REPORT Summarized history of runway friction measurement. Noted the Transport Canada system (Canadian Runway Friction Index). Findings: “All FAA-approved CFME and DECs produce statistically equal measurement values…” on certain surface conditions when Mu = 40. “NASA research has proven that friction values…can be related to aircraft tire braking performance.” “Subjective braking action reports do not correlate to aircraft braking performance.” 1995 GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Require airports to conduct and report friction measurements. FAA should improve guidance for airports. FAA should fund airports’ purchases of runway friction testers. Continue research. Form a working group to develop operational criteria. FAA ACTIONS Revised FAA Advisory Circulars to improve guidance: “It is not necessary to report the type of friction measuring device since the friction numbers below 40 read essentially the same for all approved devices.” CFME and DECs are eligible for federal funding. Joint Winter Runway Friction Measurement Program formed. Acquired a fleet of runway friction testing equipment to participate in research. FAA GUIDANCE FOR AIRPORTS Advisory Circular 150/5320-12, Measurement, Construction, and Maintenance of Skid Resistant Airport Pavement Surfaces. Lists approved CFME. Advisory Circular 150/5200-30, Airport Winter Safety and Operations. Lists approved decelerometers. Provides guidance for conduction operational friction tests. Limits are com