Rullausväylät

Rullausväylät, also known as taxiways, are paved or unpaved paths on an aerodrome that facilitate the movement of aircraft on the ground. They connect different parts of the aerodrome, such as hangars, aprons, and runways, allowing aircraft to taxi between these locations safely and efficiently. Rullausväylät are crucial for the operational flow of an airport, ensuring that aircraft can move without interfering with active runways.

The design and layout of rullausväylät are standardized to ensure safety and consistency across different airports. They are typically marked with specific signs and lighting systems to guide pilots during ground operations. These markings include centerlines, edge lines, and sometimes, intersection markings. Lighting systems, such as taxiway lights and signs, are essential for visibility, especially during nighttime or low-visibility conditions.

Aircraft movement on rullausväylät is controlled by air traffic control (ATC) through ground control. Pilots receive instructions from ground control regarding their taxi routes and speeds. This coordination is vital to prevent collisions and maintain orderly movement on the airport surface. The speed limits on rullausväylät are generally lower than those on runways to allow pilots more time to react to any unexpected situations.

The materials used for constructing rullausväylät vary depending on the type of aircraft they are intended to support and the climate. Common materials include asphalt and concrete. The width and strength of the rullausväylät are designed to accommodate the weight and wingspan of the aircraft that will use them. Regular maintenance, including crack sealing and surface repairs, is performed to ensure the integrity and safety of the rullausväylät.