The Runway Condition Report (RCR)

The Runway Condition Report (RCR) is a crucial tool in aviation, providing flight crews with
standardized, up-to-date information about the condition of a runway. This information is
vital for pilots to accurately assess aircraft performance for both takeoff and landing,
ultimately enhancing safety and mitigating the risk of runway excursions.
The RCR is part of the Global Reporting Format (GRF), a globally harmonized methodology
developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Before the GRF, reporting
methods varied significantly, leading to inconsistencies and potential misinterpretations.

Interpretation of the RCR:

1. Purpose of the RCR:
* Standardized Communication: The RCR provides a consistent way for aerodrome
operators to assess and report runway conditions to air traffic services (ATS) and
aeronautical information services (AIS). This information is then disseminated to flight
crews via SNOWTAMs, Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS), or direct radio
broadcasts.
* Performance Calculation: The core function of the RCR is to provide data that enables
pilots to calculate their aircraft's takeoff and landing performance. This includes
determining required runway length, speeds, and braking distances.
* Situational Awareness: Beyond performance, the RCR offers crucial situational
awareness, informing pilots about potential hazards like slippery surfaces, snowbanks, or
standing water.
* Risk Mitigation: By providing accurate and timely information, the RCR helps pilots make
informed decisions, reducing the risk of runway excursions (overruns or veer-offs).

2. Key Components of an RCR

The RCR is a comprehensive report with two main sections:
* Aeroplane Performance Calculation Section: This section provides specific data directly
used for performance calculations.
* Situational Awareness Section: This section offers descriptive information about the
runway conditions.
The most critical element within the RCR for performance calculation is the Runway
Condition Code (RWYCC), which is derived using the Runway Condition Assessment Matrix
(RCAM).
a. Runway Condition Code (RWYCC):
* Definition: The RWYCC is a single digit (0-6) that describes the effect of the runway
surface condition on aircraft braking capability.
* 6: Dry - Normal braking action.
* 5: Wet / Frost / Thin contaminants (up to 3mm depth of dry snow, wet snow, slush) -
Braking deceleration is normal, directional control is normal. Good braking action.
* 4: Compacted Snow (at or below -15°C) - Braking deceleration or directional control is
between Good and Medium. Good to medium braking action.
* 3: Wet (Slippery Wet) / Dry Snow or Wet Snow (any depth) on top of Compacted Snow /
Compacted Snow (above -15°C) / More than 3mm depth of Dry Snow or Wet Snow -
Braking deceleration is noticeably reduced, or directional control is noticeably reduced.
Medium braking action.
* 2: Standing Water (more than 3mm deep) / Slush (more than 3mm deep) - Braking
deceleration or directional control is between Medium and Poor. Medium to poor braking
action.
* 1: Ice - Braking deceleration is significantly reduced, or directional control is significantly
reduced. Poor braking action.
* 0: Wet Ice / Water on top of Compacted Snow / Dry Snow or Wet Snow on top of Ice -
Braking deceleration or directional control is uncertain. Less than poor / nil braking action.
(Often leads to runway closure).
* Reporting in Thirds: For longer runways, the RWYCC is often reported for each third of
the runway length:
* First third: Touchdown zone.
* Second third: Midpoint.
* Third third: Rollout.
* Example: A report of "RWYCC 5/3/3" for Runway 27 means the first third of Runway 27
has a RWYCC of 5 (wet/good), and the middle and last thirds have a RWYCC of 3 (medium).
This allows pilots to understand how conditions change along the runway.
b. Runway Condition Assessment Matrix (RCAM):
* The RCAM is the tool used by aerodrome operators to determine the RWYCC. It
correlates various contaminant types, depths, and temperatures with the corresponding
RWYCC and an expected braking action.
* It's a standardized table that helps airport personnel make consistent assessments.
c. Contaminant Information:
The RCR also includes details about the contaminant(s) present, which helps in situational
awareness:
* Type of Contaminant:
* Dry * Wet * Frost * Dry Snow * Wet *
Snow Compacted
Snow
* Slush * Standing * Ice * Wet Ice * *
Water Chemicals Snowdrifts
(anti-icing or or
de-icing snowbanks
liquids)

* Depth: The depth of the contaminant (e.g., "1/8IN" for 1/8 inch or less, "3MM" for 3
millimeters).
* Coverage: The percentage of coverage in each third of the runway (e.g., "60% covered").
* Description: Sometimes, additional descriptive terms are used, such as "patchy" or "all
runways covered by compacted snow."
d. Braking Action Reports (PIREPS):
While the RCR is primarily based on aerodrome operator assessments, pilot reports
(PIREPS) of braking action are also crucial. Pilots may report braking action using terms like:
* Good * Good to * Medium * Medium * Poor * Nil
Medium to Poor

These pilot reports can confirm or, in some cases, lead to a downgrade of the reported
RWYCC if the actual braking experience is worse than the initial assessment.

3. Dissemination of RCR Information:

* Aerodrome Operator: Assesses the runway condition and creates the RCR.
* Air Traffic Services (ATS): Receives the RCR from the aerodrome operator.
* Aeronautical Information Services (AIS): Disseminates the RCR via:
* SNOWTAM: A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) specifically for snow, ice, and slush conditions.
* ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service): A continuous broadcast of non-control
information.
* Voice Radio: Direct communication from ATC to pilots.
4. How Pilots Use the RCR:
Pilots use the RCR in conjunction with their aircraft's performance data (typically found in
the Pilot Operating Handbook or Flight Manual) to:
* Calculate Landing Distance: Determine the minimum runway length required for a safe
landing given the reported conditions.
* Calculate Takeoff Performance: Assess takeoff distances, V-speeds (e.g., V1, Vr, V2), and
acceleration capabilities.
* Adjust Operations: Decide if a runway is safe for operation, if a different runway should
be used, or if a diversion is necessary.
* Apply Operational Limitations: Adhere to any performance limitations specified by the
aircraft manufacturer for specific runway conditions.
In summary, the Runway Condition Report (RCR) is a standardized and critical piece of
information in aviation. Through the use of the Global Reporting Format (GRF) and the
Runway Condition Assessment Matrix (RCAM), it provides pilots with the necessary data to
make informed decisions regarding takeoff and landing on contaminated runways,
significantly contributing to aviation safety