AIM 

4/20/23 

FIG 2

−

3

−

1 

Precision Instrument Runway Markings 

b.  Runway Designators. 

Runway numbers and letters are determined from the approach direction. The 

runway number is the whole number nearest one-tenth the magnetic azimuth of the centerline of the runway, 

measured clockwise from the magnetic north. The letters, differentiate between left (L), right (R), or center (C) 

parallel runways, as applicable: 

1. 

For two parallel runways “L” “R.” 

2. 

For three parallel runways “L” “C” “R.” 

c.  Runway Centerline Marking. 

The runway centerline identifies the center of the runway and provides 

alignment guidance during takeoff and landings. The centerline consists of a line of uniformly spaced stripes and 

gaps. 

d.  Runway Aiming Point Marking. 

The aiming point marking serves as a visual aiming point for a landing 

aircraft. These two rectangular markings consist of a broad white stripe located on each side of the runway 

centerline and approximately 1,000 feet from the landing threshold, as shown in FIG 2

−

3

−

1, Precision 

Instrument Runway Markings. 

e.  Runway Touchdown Zone Markers. 

The touchdown zone markings identify the touchdown zone for 

landing operations and are coded to provide distance information in 500 feet (150m) increments. These markings 

consist of groups of one, two, and three rectangular bars symmetrically arranged in pairs about the runway 

centerline, as shown in FIG 2

−

3

−

1. For runways having touchdown zone markings on both ends, those pairs of 

markings which extend to within 900 feet (270 m) of the midpoint between the thresholds are eliminated. 

2

−

3

−

2 

Airport Marking Aids and Signs