What is the purpose of the Runway Condition Assessment Matrix (RCAM)?

The Runway Condition Assessment Matrix (RCAM) is primarily designed to report the condition of the runway. It provides a standardized format that allows airport personnel and stakeholders to convey information regarding runway surface conditions, which is crucial for maintaining safety and operational efficiency. By using the matrix, airports can evaluate and communicate various surface conditions, such as wetness, ice, or snow presence, to pilots and air traffic controllers. This reporting is essential for safe takeoffs and landings, as it directly influences how aircraft interact with the runway surface.

While other aspects such as calculating costs, documenting landings, or predicting maintenance may be part of an airport's broader operational strategy, they do not directly reflect the primary role of the RCAM in assessing and reporting current runway conditions. It's the RCAM's specific focus on surface conditions that underscores its importance in aviation safety and operational decision-making.