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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-chart-runway-length

In a sectional chart's airport data, the number 54 for runway length means what?

5,400 feet, because runway length is shown in hundreds of feet.

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  1. The runway is 54 feet wide
  2. The longest runway is about 5,400 feet ✔
  3. The airport is 54 miles away

Why: To save space, the chart shows the longest runway's length in hundreds of feet. So 54 means about 5,400 feet, though the usable length may be less.

Huh, didn't know that: The airport data block also shows the field elevation in feet.

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Why are runways so calm? They know how to let things land.
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References

Answer: The longest runway is about 5,400 feet. To save space, the chart shows the longest runway's length in hundreds of feet. So 54 means about 5,400 feet, though the usable length may be less.

  1. FAA Aeronautical Chart Users' Guide (VFR Sectional Charts) aeronav.faa.gov/user_guide/cug-complete_20260709.pdf
    Length of longest runway in hundreds of feet; usable length may be less.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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