The Breaking Performance of an Aircraft Tire on Grooved Portland Cement Concrete Surfaces

Introduction of transverse grooves on runways improves braking and cornering performance of aircraft during operations In wet weather conditions and helps to alleviate hydroplaning. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recommended 1/4-inch square grooves spaced at 1-1/2 inches for installation on runways where the potential of hydroplaning exists. However, a large number of runways remain nongrooved. The major reasons are the high cost of groove installation and limited evidence as to the effectiveness of the grooved surfaces at the touchdown speeds of modern aircraft.

DOT/FAA/RD 80-78
Author: Satish K. Agrawal and Hector Daiutolo