Aerodrome Supplementary Guidance: Declared Distances, Lighting Reference, and Sign Colors

010-09-08Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-03-271 min

Summary of Declared Distances

Distance Definition Formula (Simplified)
TORA Take-Off Run Available Physical runway suitable for takeoff roll
TODA Take-Off Distance Available TORA + Clearway (CWY)
ASDA Accelerate-Stop Distance Available TORA + Stopway (STW)
LDA Landing Distance Available Runway available for landing (affected by displaced threshold)
  • TODA includes the Clearway (may be over water).
  • ASDA includes the Stopway (load-bearing pavement for emergency braking).
  • If no Stopway, no Clearway, and no displaced threshold: TORA = TODA = ASDA = LDA.

Approach Lighting

Approach lighting measurement is always taken from the threshold outwards.

Sign Colors (Summary)

  • Mandatory Instruction Signs: White on Red (e.g., STOP, NO ENTRY).
  • Location Signs: Yellow on Black.
  • Direction/Destination Signs: Black on Yellow.
Written and reviewed by

Pablo Asensio

Aeronautical engineer. Passed the thirteen EASA ATPL(A) theoretical knowledge exams studying from these very notes. Writes and reviews each topic against the Part-FCL Learning Objectives.