The obstacle limitation surface calculator is a vital tool used in the aviation industry to determine the appropriate elevation of primary surfaces around an airport. These primary surfaces provide a protected airspace that is essential for the safe arrival and departure of aircraft. The calculator takes into account the type of runway (precision or non-precision) and calculates the primary surface elevation accordingly.
Formula of Obstacle Limitation Surface Calculator
The formula used by the obstacle limitation surface calculator is straightforward and crucial for maintaining safe airport operations. It goes like this:
Primary Surface Elevation = Runway Threshold Elevation + 50 feet (for precision runways) or + 20 feet (for non-precision runways).
This formula ensures that the primary surface elevation is correctly adjusted based on the type of runway in use.
General Terms Table
| General Term | Conversion/Description |
|---|---|
| Runway Threshold Elevation | Elevation of the runway’s start |
| Precision Runway | High-precision instrument-based runway |
| Non-Precision Runway | Runway with fewer navigational aids |
| Primary Surface | Protected airspace around runways |
| Calculator | Tool for calculating elevation |
This table simplifies common units and conversions, making it easier to grasp the essential concepts without manual calculations.
Example of Obstacle Limitation Surface Calculator
Let’s walk through a practical example to illustrate the importance of the obstacle limitation surface calculator. Imagine we have a precision runway with a runway threshold elevation of 300 feet. Using the formula mentioned earlier, we can calculate the primary surface elevation as follows:
Primary Surface Elevation = 300 feet (runway threshold elevation) + 50 feet (for precision runways) = 350 feet.
In this example, it’s clear that the calculator has helped us determine the primary surface elevation accurately, ensuring the safety of aircraft operations.
Most Common FAQs
The primary surface is a protected airspace around runways that is essential for safe takeoffs and landings.
Obstacle limitation surfaces are crucial for ensuring the safety of aircraft operations and complying with aviation regulations.
The threshold elevation can be found in airport documentation or by using surveying and measurement tools.