What classification number is crucial to determine whether an aircraft can operate on a runway?

The Aircraft Classification Number (ACN) is essential for determining whether an aircraft can operate on a runway because it quantifies the effects of an aircraft's weight and its wheel configuration on the pavement. Each aircraft has a designated ACN that reflects its structural load implications when it lands and takes off.

Runways are designed to support specific load limits, and the ACN helps to provide a clear understanding of how much weight a particular aircraft will impose on the pavement. It is a vital metric in the runway pavement management system, guiding decisions on aircraft operation, maintenance, and structural capacity of runways, thereby ensuring safety and efficiency in airport operations.

In contrast, the Pavement Classification Number (PCN) indicates the strength of the runway pavement itself and is used to match against the ACN to ensure the pavement can handle the aircraft. The other options, such as the Runway Operation Number and Pavement Load Factor, are not standard classifications recognized for determining aircraft operational capability directly related to runway usage. Hence, the focus on ACN is crucial for assessing compatibility with runway structures.