In 2018, I deployed to the Middle East for (probably) the last time.
My kids were 6 & 4.
To keep connected, I asked if I could take their favorite stuffed animals. They agreed.
I sent pictures of our adventures nearly everyday & we discussed in our calls:
1/9
I decided they’d get into frequent trouble.
Kids loved that the stuffies were mischievous, so I’d invent stories.
Like when Tigre took control without authorization & tried to head home…he missed my 6 year old, but eventually understood he had a duty & he’d be home soon.
2/9
Or when they had a showdown with a curious cat near the highest peak in the UAE…
A battle ensued. It was a draw. They were allowed to remain & explore.
Why are the lights different colors? What is that white cone thingy? How thick is the concrete? What are the stripes for?
Ready to learn something? Let’s answer, in three parts! First up:
PART 1: Design & Construction
1/27
The basics:
Whenever possible, runways are built heading into the historically prevailing wind; headwind increases lift at lower ground speeds, reducing takeoff & landing distance.
We can accept tailwind, but no more than ≈10 knots.
Terrain decides, though.
2/27
A runway is “named” based on its’ rounded compass heading.
A runway headed 273° is named “Runway 27”.
If more than one is needed in the same direction, they’re designated as (L)eft, (C)enter or (R)ight, as in: