Final answer:
A runway incursion is an incident where unauthorized aircraft, vehicles, or persons are present on a runway, posing a potential safety hazard. It's a serious airfield safety concern, and prevention involves strict adherence to procedures and the use of advanced technology for surveillance and guidance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Runway incursion is a term that describes any unauthorized aircraft, vehicle, or person on the runway, which creates a potential hazard to landing or departing aircraft. Specifically, it's an incident where an aircraft or vehicle mistakenly enters or is present on a runway, or if a pedestrian walks onto an active runway without permission. These incursions can lead to near misses and are categorized by severity, ranging from low risk to incidents which could potentially result in a collision.
Runway safety is critical, and all personnel and pilots must understand and follow the strict procedures of runway access and usage to prevent such events. Air traffic control, airport signage, lighting, and markings, as well as pilot and driver training and adherence to protocols, are essential in reducing the risk of runway incursions. Additionally, technology such as the Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS) can help detect and prevent potential incursions by providing precise surveillance and routing instructions to vehicles and aircraft on the ground.