What must controllers pay particular attention to in order to reduce runway incursions?

The focus on situation awareness is crucial for air traffic controllers in reducing runway incursions. Situation awareness refers to the ability to perceive and understand the current operational environment, including the positions and intentions of aircraft and vehicles on the airport surface. By maintaining a high level of situation awareness, controllers can effectively monitor all activities occurring on and near runways. This awareness enables them to detect potential conflicts or unsafe conditions in real-time, allowing for timely interventions to prevent incursions.

When controllers have a comprehensive understanding of their surroundings, they can make informed decisions. This includes knowing when to issue clearances, how to guide aircraft during taxi movements, and recognizing any signs that might indicate a possible runway incursion. Ultimately, strong situation awareness helps enhance communication among team members and ensures that all movements on the airport surface are synchronized effectively, thereby contributing to overall safety.