Where does the touchdown zone of the runway begin and end?

The touchdown zone of a runway is specifically defined as the first 3,000 feet beginning at the runway threshold. This area is critical for pilots as it represents the designated spot where the aircraft should ideally make contact with the runway during landing. The purpose of defining this zone is to ensure consistency and safety in landings, as it provides a standardized area for pilots to aim for in order to achieve optimal landing performance and maintain control of the aircraft.

Understanding this definition is important for various operational aspects, such as calculating landing distances and ensuring that the aircraft can safely decelerate within the available runway length. By identifying the touchdown zone properly, pilots can better plan their approach and landing techniques, which enhances safety in air travel.

Other options suggest different lengths starting from the threshold, but the standard for most commercial aviation operations maintains that the touchdown zone specifically covers the initial 3,000 feet. This standardization is widely recognized and followed in aviation training and operations.