An airport hot spot is an area on the airfield with a history or potential for runway incursions or ground conflicts between aircraft or vehicles. These locations are marked on airport diagrams to alert pilots to possible confusion or risk. Hot spots often appear where runways and taxiways intersect, or where the layout can cause uncertainty about clearances and hold-short lines.
To avoid mistakes, pilots should:
- Keep their heads up and eyes out during movement on the ground.
- Review airport diagrams before taxi.
- Note any hot spot symbols.
Why Situational Awareness Matters in Hot Spot Areas
At New Braunfels Executive Airport (KBAZ) in Texas, multiple crossing runways create a well-known hot spot. During this flight, Coach Ray from the MzeroA team was cleared to taxi via Alpha and Delta, holding short of Runway 13, even though takeoff was from Runway 17. This kind of clearance can be confusing for pilots unfamiliar with the field layout. It’s a real-world reminder that situation awareness is key: “Eyes forward, head out.” Avoid distraction from devices or avionics during taxi. Complete all programming before moving and focus solely on external cues like signage, markings, and ATC instructions.
How to Communicate and Plan for Hot Spots
Good ATC communication and preflight planning make all the difference. If you’re ever uncertain about your taxi route, it’s completely acceptable to:
- Request progressive taxi instructions.
- Ask ATC to repeat or clarify directions.
- Identify yourself as “unfamiliar with the airport”
Levi, who is flying with Coach Ray and a seasoned Cirrus and Vision Jet pilot, reminds us: “Take it slow. If you’re unsure, stop and ask. Never assume.”
Before takeoff, review:
- The FAA hot spot list at FAASafety.gov.
- Taxiway diagrams and runway markings.
- Any NOTAMs or temporary construction notes.
Prepared pilots make safer decisions on the ground, and prevent costly runway incursions.
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