How many numbers would a single runway that allows takeoff/landing in both directions have?

How many numbers would a single runway that allows takeoff/landing in both directions have?

• A. One
• B. Four
• C. Two
• D. Three

Answer: (C)

Runway numbers are based on the magnetic direction toward the end you’re using for takeoff or landing. When a runway is used in both directions, each end gets its own designation reflecting that direction. Those designations are opposite directions of travel on the same physical runway, separated by about 180 degrees. So a single runway that operates in both directions has a pair of numbers—one for each end. This is why the correct idea is that there are two identifiers associated with a two-way runway.

Runway numbers are based on the magnetic direction toward the end you’re using for takeoff or landing. When a runway is used in both directions, each end gets its own designation reflecting that direction. Those designations are opposite directions of travel on the same physical runway, separated by about 180 degrees. So a single runway that operates in both directions has a pair of numbers—one for each end. This is why the correct idea is that there are two identifiers associated with a two-way runway.