What color marks runway markings?

• A. By color only.
• B. Blue.
• C. Red.
• D. White.

Answer: (D)

Runway markings are white. This color provides a consistent, high-contrast cue that’s easily readable against most pavement surfaces under varied lighting and weather conditions. The white markings you see—the runway centerline, edge lines, aiming point, and touchdown zone markers—are standardized to be quickly recognized by pilots during high-speed approaches and landings, no matter which airport you’re at.

Taxiways, in contrast, use yellow markings to keep them visually distinct from runways so pilots don’t confuse the two areas. Temporary markings during maintenance may be yellow to indicate they’re not permanent, and if a runway is closed, large white Xs are placed at each end to show it’s not in service.