For a runway with a magnetic heading of 004°, what would the runway number be?

• A. 36
• B. 4
• C. 00
• D. 18

Answer: (A)

To determine the runway number associated with a magnetic heading of 004°, one must consider how runway numbers are assigned. Runway numbers are typically the nearest whole number to the runway's magnetic heading, divided by ten.

In this case, the magnetic heading of 004° indicates that it is very close to true North. When rounding 004° to the nearest ten-degree increment, you get 0. This is traditionally represented as runway number 36 (since runways are numbered from 1 to 36, with each number corresponding to a magnetic heading). Therefore, a magnetic heading of 004° would be expressed as runway 36, reflecting a rounding approach that accounts for directional orientation. The number denotes the approximate heading which pilots and air traffic control use for navigation.

This method ensures clarity and consistency in aviation, allowing for the easy identification of runway alignment for incoming and outgoing aircraft.