How Pilots Can Help Prevent Wrong Surface Events

The FAA has updated hot spot and runway incursion advisories, but pilot commitment to preparation is still the best way to prevent trouble.

Michael Wildes

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at 08:50 AM ET

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Before you reach this point, a good amount of preparation should be done. [File Photo: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is implementing new programs to enhance runway safety, including Arrival Alert Notices (AANs) for specific airports and standardized "hot spot" symbology to reduce confusion and mitigate incursions.
Despite technological and programmatic advancements, the article emphasizes that pilots' proactive commitment to safety remains the most significant defense against wrong surface events.
Pilots are urged to familiarize themselves thoroughly with airport layouts and potential taxi routes, using all available resources before movement.
Key pilot actions include conducting a complete briefing of all clearances, writing them down, avoiding rushing under pressure, and regularly reviewing airport signage and markings.

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Recently, the FAA announced plans to roll out a program designed to help pilots mitigate taxiway and runway incursions through new arrival alert notices (AANs). The agency has also implemented a new airport “hot spot” symbology.

The arrival alert notices (AAN) are graphics that depict the approach to a particular airport with a history and description of its relative risk. So far, 11 airports have arrival alert notices implemented.