The runway identifier numbers are surface markings located on the runway strip where aircrafts land and/or take-off. The upgrade is due to the difference between the true north and magnetic north (variation) requiring an adjustment in the directional layout of the runway. Of course, nothing in the infrastructure will change. It is only the runways' designation that will change, necessitated by magnetic variations. Runway designations are declared as two digit numbers. They represent the whole number which is nearest to one-tenth of the magnetic heading of the centreline of the runway. With this latest upgrade, PJIAE ensures continued compliance with ICAO's international obligations and the quality service required to its users.
The change will require all documented references to the runway designations to be amended, aerodrome signage to be changed, runway markings to be replaced, radar and control system maps to be updated and, not least, to encourage a rapid transition by pilots, airport and Air Traffic Control staff to using the new designations. Considering that accurate and efficient communication has a significant bearing on aerodrome safety, this is seen as a major challenge. All relevant information has been published in the pertinent publications.
