What is a 'runway incursion'?

A 'runway incursion' refers to an unauthorized entry onto a runway by an aircraft or vehicle. This definition is critical for maintaining safety in air traffic operations, as a runway incursion poses a significant risk of collision between aircraft or between an aircraft and ground vehicles. Effective measures and coordination among air traffic control, pilots, and ground personnel are essential to prevent incursions.

The other options focus on different aspects of aviation operations. For instance, a malfunction during landing procedures is related to equipment or procedural errors rather than unauthorized access. A standard clearance process for departing aircraft refers to the protocol for ensuring that aircraft receive permission to take off, which is unrelated to incursions. Finally, a protocol for handling severe weather alerts is concerned with safety measures during adverse weather conditions, rather than unauthorized activities on runways. Understanding runway incursions is vital for all aviation personnel to foster a safer operational environment.