Wet runway is defined as which description?

• A. Shiny appearance. Less than 1/8 inch water covering 100% of runway
• B. Darker asphalt with no water
• C. Visible ice patches across the surface
• D. Dry pavement with minor oil sheen

Answer: (A)

Moisture on the surface is the key idea. A wet runway means there is a thin film of water over the entire surface, which gives it a shiny appearance and feeling of slickness. The description—a shiny runway with water covering essentially 100% of the surface and a shallow depth (under about 1/8 inch)—fits this condition where the surface is wet, not dry or icy. This matters because the water film reduces braking friction and raises the risk of hydroplaning, so takeoff and landing distances can increase and steering can become more challenging. The other scenarios describe dry paving, ice, or oil slicks, which carry different handling characteristics and are not classified as wet.