FAA Critical Aircraft: A Summary of Advisory Circular AC 150/5000-17

What is a Critical Aircraft?  
According to the FAA, the Critical Aircraft is the most demanding aircraft or group of similar aircraft that regularly operates at an airport. "Regular use" is defined as at least 500 annual operations, including takeoffs and landings.

Key Points from AC 150/5000-17:

1. Purpose of Determination
   Critical Aircraft determinations guide runway length, taxiway separation, and other facility designs to match operational needs.

2. Regular Use and Similar Characteristics

   • Regular use involves operations by similar aircraft with shared performance or design attributes.
   • Data sources include landing fee reports, FAA flight plan databases, observed activity logs and ADS-B onsite tracking.
     
     

3. Existing vs. Future Critical Aircraft

   • Airports must identify current and forecasted Critical Aircraft to anticipate infrastructure needs.
   • Projections for future use rely on FAA-approved forecasts considering aircraft fleet trends.
     
     

4. Multiple Runways and Facilities

   • Separate Critical Aircraft determinations may apply for each runway or taxiway to ensure cost-effective and targeted improvements.
     
     

Why It Matters for Airports

Critical Aircraft determinations influence federal funding eligibility through programs like the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). By aligning infrastructure with operational demands, airports ensure compliance and optimize resources.

For full details, view the original FAA Advisory Circular AC 150/5000-17.

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