Exploring Runway Condition Codes and their importance

By Tushar Gupta | 6Pistons

Imagine you're descending through thick clouds, rain lashing the windshield, when ATC comes through with the latest runway report. They don't say "It's pretty slippery out there", they give you a number. That number could mean the difference between a controlled stop and an overrun.

Decoding the RWYCC Value

Runway Condition Code (RWYCC) replaces the terms used to specify the condition the runway is currently in, whether that's textbook clear and dry or water/ice flooding the tarmac. As pilots, it's in our nature to define things using numbers because that's how we function, governed by numerical values. It cuts down on excessive RT occupancy and gives the pilots exactly what they need.

6: This means dry pavement- full friction.
4-5: A runway is considered wet when it is covered by any visible dampness or water that is 3 mm or less in depth. This signals moisture is present, but considerable braking action is expected.
3: This is where things start getting difficult. The runway is classified as Slippery wet. A wet runway may be slippery where the surface friction characteristics of a significant portion of the runway have been determined to be degraded. Standing water, slush, or packed snow noticeably degrades stopping distance.
2: This stands for contaminated runway – Standing Water. Water with a depth of more than 3 mm is defined as standing water.
0-1 is dangerous territory- Sheer ice or conditions where braking is nearly nonexistent.

Runway Division: Touchdown, Mid, Rollout

A RWYCC is reported to each third of the runway assessed. The direction for listing the runway thirds shall be in the direction as seen from the lower runway designation number. Airport operators examine and collect data on:

The percentage of each runway third that is covered by contaminants
The runway surface condition and type of contaminants
The depth of the contaminants

When reporting braking action or contamination (like snow or water), a runway is divided longitudinally into three equal parts:

First third (Touchdown zone)
Mid third (Mid-runway)
Last third (Rollout zone)

Each third has its condition code (e.g., 5/3/2).

Let’s say you have Runway 09/27.

Runway 09 means aircraft approaching from the west, facing east (heading ~090°).
Runway 27 means aircraft approaching from the east, facing west (heading ~270°).

Now, the lower runway number here is 09 (because 09 < 27).
When reporting condition codes in thirds, always describe them as if you’re standing at the start of Runway 09 and looking down the runway.

Order of thirds:

First third = Touchdown for Runway 09
Second third = Mid-section
Last third = End of Runway 09 (which is the touchdown zone for Runway 27)

From low to high: the logic behind how runway condition codes are ordered

The same physical location on the runway will be in different thirds depending on your approach direction. Thus, to standardize RWYCC reports, ICAO says:
Always report runway thirds starting from the side with the lower runway number.

This avoids confusion for pilots and ATC.

For Example:

Runway: 09/27
Reported RWYCC: 5/4/3

This means:

First third or Touchdown zone (from the 09 threshold): Good (5)
Mid third: Good to medium (4)
Last third or Rollout zone (from the 09 threshold): Medium (3)

This example is relevant for the aircraft approaching to land on Runway 09. If you’re landing on Runway 27, the touchdown zone for you is actually the last third, so the worst part is what you’ll hit first.

How Runway Condition Codes Reach the Cockpit

The codes are based on real data collected by airports using friction measuring devices, laser-based surface scanners, or direct visual and tactile inspections by trained personnel. Once assessed, the information is relayed to pilots through:

ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service): A continuously updated broadcast that includes runway surface conditions, weather, and braking action.
ATC (Air Traffic Control) Updates: Extremely important when weather is deteriorating rapidly.
PIREPs (Pilot Reports): Feedback from other pilots who’ve just landed, offering firsthand insight into actual braking performance and any unexpected issues.

Why are these codes important?

Runway Condition Codes directly impact how a flight is flown. A lower value demands recalculation. Here's what changes:

Landing distances increase, sometimes by thousands of feet.
Takeoff speeds and configurations are adjusted to account for reduced friction.
Diversions may be necessary if margins fall below safety limits.

Example: On a runway rated “3,” a 737 might need several hundred extra feet to stop compared to dry conditions. A “1” could make the runway unusable for that aircraft type.

These numbers shape every decision from approach speed to go/no-go calls. That’s why every single digit matters. The code doesn't lie. Respect it, or the runway will remind you why you should have.

Tag us @6pistonsmedia on X, Instagram and LinkedIn and tell us about your personal minimums for the RWYCC and if you've experienced their importance first-hand.

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