Runways are named for their magnetic compass heading, rounded to the nearest 10 degrees. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) rules dictate that only two digits are used, ranging from 01 to 36. So, a runway heading 260° magnetic would be designated '26'.

Every runway can be used in two directions, so each runway end has its own designation. These two numbers will always differ by exactly 18 (representing 180 degrees). For example, a runway heading 220° in one direction would be designated '22', while the opposite end, heading 40°, would be designated '04'.

Putting it into Practice: Your Dropzone's Airport

Let's apply this to a real-world scenario. Take a look at the example from my home DZ, at an airport with multiple runways:

f you observe Runway 09-27 in the center of the photo, and '09' is on the left-hand side from your perspective:

• '09' stands for 90°, which is East on a compass.

• Using Runway 09 means you would be traveling from left to right in this image.

• Therefore, the right side of the photo is East, and the left side is West.

You can apply the same logic to Runway 17-35 (running from top to bottom). '17' indicates 170°, which is close to South. '35' indicates 350°, which is close to North.

Clear Communication: Runway Pronunciation

For clear and unambiguous communication, especially on the radio or when discussing ground operations and landing patterns, runway digits are always pronounced individually.

• "Runway 27" is pronounced "Runway Two-Seven"

• "Runway 35" is pronounced "Runway Three-Five"

Why This Matters to Every Skydiver

If you've read this far, you understand this isn't just pilot trivia. Understanding runway headings provides you with an invaluable navigation tool at any airport, anywhere in the world. As a skydiver, this knowledge is critical for:

• Instant Ground Orientation: Immediately determine cardinal directions on the dropzone without needing a compass. This is essential for understanding and applying wind data.

• Accurate Wind Awareness: When manifest or a fellow jumper gives you a wind report (e.g., "winds on the ground are coming from the west, but winds aloft are from the north"), you can instantly visualize this relative to the runway and your intended landing pattern.

• Optimal Landing Pattern Planning: Knowing the active runway and its heading helps you understand prevailing winds and plan your most efficient and safest landing pattern for precision and stability.

• Enhanced Situational Awareness: Being able to interpret your surroundings like a seasoned aviator adds a powerful layer to your overall skydiving intelligence and safety toolkit.

• Becoming a More Competent Skydiver: This fundamental knowledge is a hallmark of a truly skilled and self-reliant skydiver, vital for your progression to your A-License, B-License, and beyond.

Mastering runway headings is a small but powerful piece of knowledge that significantly enhances your situational awareness and safety as a skydiver. At Skydive Fundamentals, we believe that true progression comes from understanding every aspect of your environment. Take the time to truly grasp this concept – it's an investment in becoming a more confident, capable, and self-sufficient jumper.

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