What is the main purpose of runway design?

The primary purpose of runway design is to handle one aircraft at a time. This is crucial because runways need to be optimized for the safe and efficient operation of aircraft during takeoff and landing. Each aircraft requires appropriate space to ensure that it can accelerate to takeoff speed or decelerate safely upon landing, which is facilitated by a clear and unobstructed runway.

The design considers various factors such as length, width, and surface materials, which must accommodate the specific landing and takeoff requirements of different aircraft types. Moreover, it is essential for maintaining safety standards, as only one aircraft can occupy a runway at any given moment to prevent accidents during these critical phases of flight.

While the other options relate to overall airport operations and logistics, they do not encapsulate the fundamental function of runways, which focuses on providing a safe and dedicated space for individual aircraft operations.