What is the second component of the Airport Reference Code (ARC)?

The second component of the Airport Reference Code (ARC) is the Aircraft Design Group (ADG). The ARC is a system developed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to classify airports based on the types of aircraft that commonly use them and to ensure safe operations.

The Aircraft Design Group is crucial as it categorizes the aircraft based on wingspan and specific design characteristics that influence the airport’s requirements, such as runway width, taxiway width, and separation distances. By classifying airports according to their ability to accommodate certain sizes and types of aircraft, the ADG helps in planning and designing airport infrastructure that meets operational needs while ensuring safety.

Understanding the ADG is particularly important for managing runway designs and operations. For instance, larger aircraft require specific design features that are different from smaller general aviation aircraft. This classification aids in determining appropriate safety measures and operational policies that must be implemented at the airport.

The other options relate to important aspects of airports but do not fulfill the definition of the second component of the ARC. The Aircraft Approach Category, for instance, is concerned with the approach speeds of aircraft, while the Runway Safety Area and Airport Layout Plan have their own distinct definitions and roles separate from the ARC classification system.