Which consideration is paramount in the design of a runway?

The paramount consideration in the design of a runway is accommodating the largest aircraft expected to use it. This is critical because the largest aircraft dictate specific requirements for runway length, width, strength, and safety features.

Larger aircraft typically have greater takeoff and landing distances due to their weight and size, requiring more extensive runway space. They may also have specific safety margins needed for operations, such as higher load-bearing capabilities and specific surface materials to prevent damage from increased landing forces.

Considering the largest aircraft ensures that the runway can handle a wide range of operations, including larger commercial jets and cargo planes that might be less frequent but require greater infrastructure support. Planning with the largest aircraft in mind not only facilitates current use but also future-proofs the runway for potential increases in aircraft size and capacity in the aviation market.