What does EMAS stand for in the context of airport safety?

Engineered Material Arresting System, abbreviated as EMAS, is a safety feature installed at airports to help prevent overruns during landings. When an aircraft overruns the runway, the EMAS is designed to provide a deceleration surface that effectively absorbs the energy of the aircraft, reducing its speed and allowing it to stop safely.

The material used in EMAS is specifically engineered to deform upon impact, providing a cushioned effect that slows down the aircraft without significant risk of damage to the plane or injury to passengers. This technology has been proven to enhance the overall safety of airports, especially when dealing with situations of runway overrun where immediate stopping power is crucial.

Understanding the purpose and function of EMAS is vital for airport drivers, as it is one of the essential systems in place ensuring safety during runway operations.