AIM Text
When installed, runway half-way signs provide the pilot with a reference point to judge takeoff acceleration trends. Assuming that the runway length is appropriate for takeoff (considering runway condition and slope, elevation, aircraft weight, wind, and temperature), typical takeoff acceleration should allow the airplane to reach 70 percent of lift-off airspeed by the midpoint of the runway. The “rule of thumb” is that should airplane acceleration not allow the airspeed to reach this value by the midpoint, the takeoff should be aborted, as it may not be possible to liftoff in the remaining runway.
Several points are important when considering using this “rule of thumb”:
- Airspeed indicators in small airplanes are not required to be evaluated at speeds below stalling, and may not be usable at 70 percent of liftoff airspeed.
- This “rule of thumb” is based on a uniform surface condition. Puddles, soft spots, areas of tall and/or wet grass, loose gravel, etc., may impede acceleration or even cause deceleration. Even if the airplane achieves 70 percent of liftoff airspeed by the midpoint, the condition of the remainder of the runway may not allow further acceleration. The entire length of the runway should be inspected prior to takeoff to ensure a usable surface.
- This “rule of thumb” applies only to runway required for actual liftoff. In the event that obstacles affect the takeoff climb path, appropriate distance must be available after liftoff to accelerate to best angle of climb speed and to clear the obstacles. This will, in effect, require the airplane to accelerate to a higher speed by midpoint, particularly if the obstacles are close to the end of the runway. In addition, this technique does not take into account the effects of upslope or tailwinds on takeoff performance. These factors will also require greater acceleration than normal and, under some circumstances, prevent takeoff entirely.
- Use of this “rule of thumb” does not alleviate the pilot's responsibility to comply with applicable Federal Aviation Regulations, the limitations and performance data provided in the FAA approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), or, in the absence of an FAA approved AFM, other data provided by the aircraft manufacturer.
In addition to their use during takeoff, runway half-way signs offer the pilot increased awareness of his or her position along the runway during landing operations.
FIG 7-6-1
Typical Runway Half-way Sign
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 7-6-8.
Research Notes
AIM 7-6-8 covers Frost — the lighter accumulation of ice crystals on cold-soaked surfaces.
Frost characteristics: Forms when moisture in the air sublimates onto a cold surface (typically clear, calm, cold nights). Aircraft surfaces drop below ambient temperature via radiation, and moisture deposits as crystalline frost.
The 'clean wing' rule: NEVER take off with frost on the wings. Even very thin frost (1-2 mm) can disturb airflow and disrupt lift production. NTSB has multiple accidents traceable to taking off with frost.
Removal:
- Hot water flush (de-icing fluid at airports)
- Push the aircraft into a warm hangar to melt
- Brush off (mechanical) — but this is risky as residual frost may remain
- Wait for sun to melt (may not be practical)
Reference: AC 91-74B; AIM 7-6-8; SAE AMS 1424 (Aircraft Deicing Fluid).