Which scenario is a typical reason to establish a displaced threshold?

• A. Obstructions in the approach path.
• B. Extended taxiway length.
• C. Improved runway lighting.
• D. Weather radar installation.

Answer: (A)

Displacing a runway threshold is done to ensure safe landing clearance when there are hazards along the approach path. If there are obstructions—like trees, buildings, or higher terrain—near the end of the runway, touching down at the physical threshold could be unsafe. Moving the landing threshold downstream creates a clearer, unobstructed final approach path. The portion before the displaced threshold can still be used for takeoffs or rollout, but not for landing, so the landing distance available is reduced accordingly.

The other options don’t create an obstacle-free landing path, so they don’t justify moving the threshold: extending the taxiway length affects taxi and ground movement, not the approach path; improving runway lighting or adding weather radar improves operations but doesn’t address approach obstructions.