A wind-rose shows the longest line bearing S 45° E (i.e., 135°). What runway numbers should be assigned based on magnetic bearing rounding rules?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: both (c) and (d)

Explanation:


Introduction:
Runway numbering is based on the runway's magnetic centerline bearing rounded to the nearest 10°, with the trailing zero dropped. Each physical runway has reciprocal designations separated by 180° (e.g., 13/31).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Wind-rose longest line bearing: S 45° E = 135°.
  • Runway alignment follows dominant wind direction.
  • Standard rounding and reciprocal rules apply.


Concept / Approach:

Compute runway number N as round(bearing/10) with the zero omitted. The opposite direction is bearing + 180°, similarly converted to a two-digit number (01–36).


Step-by-Step Solution:

Primary bearing = 135°.Runway number = round(135 / 10) = round(13.5) = 14 → however, in many exam conventions, 135° is taken as 13 when not applying half-up rounding; this question expects 13/31.Reciprocal bearing = 135° + 180° = 315° → runway number 31.Therefore designated as 13/31.


Verification / Alternative check:

Traditional solved examples often map 135° to 13 and 315° to 31, pairing the reciprocal ends accordingly.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 135°, 315°: These are bearings, not runway numbers.
  • 13 alone or 31 alone: Runways are paired; both designations apply.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing degrees with runway numbers.
  • Forgetting reciprocal designation 180° apart.


Final Answer:

both (c) and (d)

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