What does a Runway Condition Reading (RCR) indicate?

A Runway Condition Reading (RCR) indicates the braking effectiveness of the runway surface. This measurement is crucial for pilots as it provides them with an assessment of how well their aircraft will be able to decelerate upon landing. The RCR takes into account various surface conditions, such as whether the runway is wet, icy, or covered in snow, thereby influencing the friction between the aircraft's tires and the runway. A higher RCR value generally means better braking performance, while a lower value indicates reduced braking effectiveness, which can impact landing procedures and aircraft safety.

The other options relate to different aspects of runway conditions: while the total length of the runway is vital for planning a safe landing, it does not reflect the runway’s surface condition. Similarly, the amount of debris or the temperature of the runway can affect landing, but they do not specifically indicate the braking effectiveness that the RCR measures. Understanding RCR is essential for effective safety management and operational decision-making in aviation.