Definition

Manoeuvring area. That part of an aerodrome to be used for the takeoff, landing and taxiing of aircraft, excluding aprons.

Source: ICAO Annex 14: Aerodromes

Description

The manoeuvring area of an aerodrome comprises:

• the runway(s), used primarily for takeoffs and landings
• the taxiway(s), providing links between different parts of the aerodrome, most often between the apron(s) and the runway(s)

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The manoeuvring area is part of the movement area which also includes the apron(s). The distinction between the movement area and the manoeuvring area is necessary because of the different procedures used. Examples of these are listed below:

• One of the main purposes of aerodrome air traffic control service is preventing collision between aircraft and between aircraft and obstacles on the manoeuvring area. While collision prevention is of paramount importance on the apron(s) as well, this is not part of the air traffic control service.
• At controlled aerodromes, entering and moving on the manoeuvring area is subject to a previously obtained ATC clearance. Additionally, two-way radio communication must be established and maintained with the controller. This is applicable to aircraft, vehicles and other personnel. On the other hand, most activities on the apron(s) (e.g. refuelling, passenger handling, loading, etc.) are not coordinated with the controller.
• While procedures at uncontrolled aerodromes vary greatly from one location to the next, it is often the case that pilots use a radio call to inform other parties (such as other pilots, the flight information service officer (AFISO), etc.) about their intention to take off or land (i.e. to use the manoeuvring area). This does not normally happen with regards to use of the apron(s).
• Vehicle drivers and other ground personnel are often required to obtain permission from the AFISO before entering the manoeuvring area at uncontrolled aerodromes.
• At some aerodromes, passengers are to walk on the apron in order to get from the terminal building to the aircraft. While this requires appropriate risk mitigation (e.g. using temporary barriers), it is a routine procedure. By contrast, the presence of passengers on the manoeuvring area only happens under extreme circumstances, such as an emergency evacuation.

Further Reading

• ICAO Annex 14: Aerodromes
• ICAO Doc 4444 PANS-ATM