I just received one of those helpful emails from the FAA. Regarding a “new runway crossing procedure.” Apparently, as of 30th June, you will no longer be told by ATC to “Taxi to…” From now on you must receive explicit instructions to cross runways. Since 30th June is two days away, I really hope the controllers got more warning.
In case you aren’t in the know, I’ll post the full text of the email below.
New Runway Crossing Procedure
Notice Number: NOTC2372Runway Crossing Procedure Change
Beginning June 30, 2010 , controllers will be required to issue explicit instructions to cross or hold short of each runway that intersects a taxi route.
“Taxi to” will no longer be used when issuing taxi instructions to an assigned take-off runway.
Instructions to cross a runway will be issued one at a time. Instructions to cross multiple runways will not be issued. An aircraft or vehicle must have crossed the previous runway before another runway crossing is issued.
This applies to any runway, including inactive or closed runways.
Changes will also be made to the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and AIP to reflect the new procedures.
Never cross a hold line without explicit ATC instructions.
If in doubt ASK!Reminder: You may not enter a runway unless you have been:
- instructed to cross that specific runway;
- cleared to take off from that runway; or
- instructed to position and hold on that specific runway.
See https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2010/Jun/Runway_Crossing_Procedural_Change_FAAST_Blast.pdf for the Runway Safety notice. Click this next link for a video of the change. http://www.faa.gov/airports/runway_safety/news/current_events/taxi_to/media/TaxiTo_V3_3wPreloader.swf (You may have to copy and paste the links into your browser.)
For additional information, go to http://www.faa.gov/go/runwaysafety