Which practices ensure runway and taxiway maintenance?

• A. Regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and CIP-funded rehabilitation projects.
• B. Waiting for major incidents before performing any maintenance.
• C. Daily flights schedules optimization and passenger load balancing.
• D. Exclusive reliance on private contractors for all maintenance.

Answer: (A)

Proactive, planned upkeep keeps runways and taxiways safe and reliable. Regular inspections continuously monitor pavement conditions, lighting, marking integrity, and surface friction so defects and wear are found before they become hazards. When issues are identified, preventive maintenance addresses wear and deterioration early—patching, sealing, small resurfacing, and routine repairs extend pavement life and maintain safe operations for aircraft and ground vehicles.

CIP-funded rehabilitation projects provide a structured, funded path for larger, life-cycle repairs and major improvements. This funding approach ensures there is budgeted money for significant resurfacing, strength restoration, drainage upgrades, and other substantial undertakings that can’t be covered by day-to-day maintenance alone. Together, regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and planned rehabilitation create a comprehensive, proactive maintenance program that reduces risk, minimizes disruptions, and protects asset value.

The other options are not effective approaches: waiting for major incidents is dangerous and reactive; focusing on flight schedules and passenger load balancing addresses operations rather than pavement condition; relying solely on private contractors for all maintenance can miss the ongoing planning, oversight, and funding needed for a robust program.