Pavement Classification Number

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The Pavement Classification Number (PCN) is an International Civil Aviation Organization standard used in combination with the Aircraft Classification Number (ACN) to indicate the strength of a runway, taxiway or airport ramp (or apron). This helps to ensure that the airport ramp is not subjected to excessive wear and tear and thus lengthen its life.

Although important for the runway the major use of this number is for the apron. On landing the aircraft is light on fuel and usually less than 50% of the weight of the aircraft touches the runway in one go. On takeoff the aircraft is heavy but as the aircraft accelerates the weight gradually moves from the wheels to the wings. It is while the aircraft is being loaded and taxiing prior to departure.

Typically this is only used for asphalt or concrete runways and would not be used for grass or gravel.