If you observe a potential runway incursion, what action should you take?

• A. Do nothing until directed.
• B. Take immediate action to separate traffic, issue corrective instructions, and notify the appropriate supervisor or controller.
• C. Log the incident and continue normal operations.
• D. Call a supervisor after landing.

Answer: (B)

When you spot a potential runway incursion, the priority is to prevent a collision by restoring safe separation now. Take immediate action to separate traffic if you can do so safely, and issue clear, corrective instructions to the involved aircraft or ground vehicle. This could mean directing someone to stop and hold short, guiding a vehicle off the runway, or providing a vector or other instruction to increase distance between conflicting movements. At the same time, notify the appropriate supervisor or controller so the situation is escalated and properly coordinated with other units.

Waiting for further directions, logging the incident and continuing as normal, or calling after landing doesn’t mitigate the risk and may miss the critical moment to prevent an incident. Clear, decisive action and timely communication are essential to maintain runway safety.