Runway Guide
Runways, headwind, and crosswind explained
Runway numbers come from magnetic direction. Runway 23 points roughly 230 degrees. The opposite end is usually 18 numbers away, so Runway 23 is paired with Runway 05. Letters like L, C, and R identify parallel runways: left, center, and right.
Why pilots prefer wind down the runway
Aircraft usually take off and land into the wind. A headwind lowers groundspeed for takeoff and landing, which can reduce runway distance. A crosswind pushes across the runway and requires more correction from the pilot.
What “favored runway” means
If wind is from 230 degrees, a runway facing 230 degrees often has the best headwind component. Calm or light winds can make more than one runway practical, and airports may still choose a different configuration because of traffic flow, instrument procedures, noise rules, or ATC instructions.