What does runway surface condition refer to?

Runway surface condition specifically refers to the measurement of the depth and type of runway covering. This involves evaluating the physical characteristics of the runway, which significantly impact aircraft performance during takeoff and landing. Factors such as snow, ice, or water on the runway can affect how an aircraft operates, particularly its braking and stopping capabilities.

Understanding the depth and type of covering helps aircrews assess the runway's safety for operations. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions about landing and takeoff, as it directly influences the handling characteristics of the aircraft. The other concepts mentioned, such as the total friction coefficient or the material composition, while they are related to runway performance, do not specifically encapsulate what the runway surface condition refers to in this context.