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1.9 Runway Friction IndexIce or snow on a runway was a factor in approximately 30 airplane accidents between 1983 and 1995. Inaccurate, incomplete, or confusing runway surface information was also a contributing factor in a number of cases in which airliners were dangerously slow in reaching liftoff speed because of the effect of snow, ice, or rain. A 5-year joint NASA, FAA, and Transport Canada research effort has been under way to focus on proving technology concepts for a better understanding of runway friction, improved tire designs, better chemical treatments for snow and ice, and new types of runway surfaces that minimize bad weather effects. Program support has been received from organizations in Scotland, Great Britain, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, and Japan.
The NASA 757 research airplane makes a test run on a snowy runway in Michigan. In a recent major accomplishment, the research team developed an international runway friction indexing method. To develop the index, researchers performed braking tests with ground-friction measuring vehicles and research aircraft on a variety of dry, wet, snowy, and icy runway conditions. The on-going research focuses on relating the index to braking performance of different aircraft types and sizes. The index, which is anticipated to become an international standard for assessing runway conditions, will facilitate safe takeoff and landing decisions based on readings taken by a ground-friction measurement vehicle on the same runway. It will be a single, accurate, and easy-to-use tool to help both pilots and airport operators worldwide to quickly assess winter runway conditions. This index will help prevent accidents and reduce unnecessary delays by providing airlines the necessary information to operate safely under adverse weather conditions.
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NASA Headquarters Responsible Official: Code R
Curator: SAIC Information Services http://www.aerospace.nasa.gov |
