End - Around Taxiway Screen Evaluation

Taxiways that go around the runway ends are called End Around Taxiways, or EAT. Airports with dual and triple parallel runways can have increased operational capacity and reduced risk of potential runway incursions when EATs are created. EAT visual screens are generally required at the end of the operational runway to clearly indicate to the pilot if an aircraft is in the process of crossing the active runway, or if they are on the EAT. This report describes the best design characteristics of an EAT visual screens. It was determined that a 13 foot high screen consisting of engineering grade reflective material with 12 foot wide red and white diagonal striping proved most effective, and that the use of the reflective material prevents the need for additional external lighting to enhance screen visibility at night.

DOT/FAA/AR-TN06/59
Author: James W. Patterson, Jr.