10/14/2026
Ever looked at our tarmac and wondered, "What do those giant painted numbers actually mean?"
Spoiler alert: they are not random numbers, and they are not just parking spots for planes!
Runway numbers are based on magnetic heading. Take the compass direction the runway points toward, round it to the nearest 10 degrees, and drop the last zero. For example, a runway pointing at 070° (east-northeast) becomes Runway 07!
Every runway can be used in both directions. The opposite end is always 180° away. That’s why here at YNJ, our runways are designated 07/25 and 01/19! If a pilot takes off heading 070°, they’re on Runway 07. If they land coming the opposite direction (250°), they’re using Runway 25!
Plus, did you know that Magnetic North slowly shifts over time? Every few decades, airports around the world have to repaint their numbers so they stay aligned with magnetic compasses!
Next time you visit Langley Regional Airport to watch the planes, you’ll know exactly which direction they’re heading!