Aerodrome Reference Code
Also written as: ARC — Aerodrome Reference Code
An ICAO coding system used to classify aerodromes based on runway length and aircraft wingspan, determining the design and infrastructure standards required.
Full Definition
The Aerodrome Reference Code (ARC) is a two-character designation defined in ICAO Annex 14, consisting of a number (1–4, based on the critical aircraft's reference field length) and a letter (A–F, based on wingspan and outer main gear span). For example, Code 4F denotes the highest category, accommodating very large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. The ARC governs minimum standards for runway width, taxiway separation, obstacle limitation surfaces, and ground support infrastructure. Editors should render the code as a number followed by an uppercase letter with no space (e.g., 4E, 4F) and expand the term on first use in regulatory or planning documents.
Usage
Usage note: The code is rendered as a numeral followed by an uppercase letter with no space or hyphen (e.g., 4E, 4F). Do not confuse with the FAA's equivalent Aircraft Design Group (ADG) system, which uses different criteria.
In Context
- "The new terminal apron was designed to accommodate Code 4E aircraft, requiring taxiway separation of at least 82.5 metres." — Airport master plan technical annex
- "The aerodrome reference code must be stated in the aerodrome manual and kept current following any infrastructure change." — Aerodrome certification document