Blaze Through the 2025 DoD ARFF Fire Academy Test – Ignite Your Firefighting Dream!

Runways are numbered based on the nearest compass bearing in the direction of takeoff. This means that the number you see associated with a runway corresponds to the magnetic azimuth (or compass heading) that the runway is aligned with when measured to the nearest 10 degrees. For instance, if a runway points toward a magnetic heading of 150 degrees, it would be designated as Runway 15 (since 150 rounded to the nearest ten is 150).

This system provides pilots with a clear understanding of the direction they will be taking off or landing and is essential for flight navigation, particularly in ensuring the correct alignment with established air traffic control procedures. The chosen method allows for a standardized understanding among pilots and controllers regardless of the geographic location.

Understanding this helps pilots accurately interpret their headings and maintain safe operation around various airports. The other options do not accurately reflect how runway numbering works, as they relate to different aspects not used in the designation of runways.