New Runway Designations at Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Best Visible with SWARCO Road Marking Systems
The runways at Berlin Brandenburg Airport have been renamed, with both now sporting new identifiers necessary for navigation. This change was prompted by the need to adjust the internationally recognized runway codes in response to the Earth’s shifting magnetic field. The magnetic North Pole, to which a compass needle points, currently shifts approximately 55 kilometers each year.
Clearly Visible from the Air
In Berlin, it was time to apply the updated identifiers to the runways. Pilots can now easily spot the new designations: 24R/06L (North Runway) and 06R/24L (South Runway), even from the air. These numbers correspond to the runway's orientation based on compass headings, with the North Runway aligned at 240 degrees (24R) in one direction and 60 degrees (06L) in the opposite. To ensure clear visibility, special airport marking materials and SWARCO Road Marking Systems’ PLUS9BEADS high-index glass beads were used.
PLUS9BEADS reflect landing lights back to the approaching aircraft, making the markings easily visible from the cockpit – especially under challenging light or weather conditions. This enhances early recognition by pilots, reducing accident risks. There is currently increased demand for SWARCO's marking systems – a trend that is also supported by positive feedback from pilots and authorities, who particularly emphasise night visibility in wet conditions.
Durable Materials to Rely On
In addition to the runways, the apron and taxiways were also updated with new markings. SWARCO Road Marking Systems provided a full range of marking materials for Airports, including 1- and 2-component high-solid paints, dispersion paints, and cold plastics, each offering distinct advantages. It is essential that the materials not only offer optimal abrasion resistance but are also resistant to fuel, de-icing agents, engine oils, and hydraulic fluids.
In collaboration with the German air navigation service provider DFS and airlines, Berlin Brandenburg Airport ensured that the new designations, 24R/06L and 06R/24L, are clearly visible. These high-quality markings improve orientation for pilots and ground staff, boosting overall safety. Safe travels!
About SWARCO Road Marking Systems
Quality products and services from SWARCO Road Marking Systems guide traffic safely from A to B by day and, above all, by night. On all types of roads. Whatever the weather. From a single source. Over 5,000 customers in more than 80 countries place their trust in them.
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