Airport Direction Signs

Clear and Compliant Airport Sign Solutions

At any airport, safety and efficiency rely heavily on proper signage and marking. From runway markings to detailed direction signs, each airport sign plays a crucial role in guiding both pilots and ground crews. These signs are not just informative—they're critical for compliance with FAA regulations and ensuring safety around runways, taxiways, and terminals.

Understanding Airport Signs

There are multiple types of signs used throughout an airport environment. For instance, mandatory instruction signs are essential, especially where operations cross active runways. These signs have a red background and clearly denote restricted zones. Runway holding position signs, including the approach area holding position sign and critical area holding position sign, prevent aircraft from inadvertently entering an active runway.

Location Signs and Directional Guidance

Location signs are used to identify the position on the taxiway and provide pilots with the designation of the taxiway. These signs have a black background with yellow inscriptions. To the left or right of the location sign, you’ll often find direction signs, which point toward intersecting taxiways. Taxiway direction signs show the designation and its associated arrow. If the sign indicates a turn, it helps ensure the aircraft moves accurately through the airport.

Runway Markings and Hold Position Safety

Runway markings such as centerline markings, runway threshold markings, and shoulder markings guide pilots during landings and takeoffs. Runway shoulder markings indicate areas that are not intended for aircraft use. Hold position markings are placed to mark the edges of areas where aircraft must stop. These runway holding position markings are highly visible and often combined with signs for maximum clarity. The runway holding position sign reinforces these markings and is essential to prevent incursions.

Destination, Distance, and Informational Signs

Destination signs guide pilots toward terminals or runways and are easily identified by their black inscriptions on a yellow background. Runway distance remaining signs are placed alongside the runway to indicate how much usable runway remains. These remaining signs have a black background with white numerals. Information signs provide data such as frequencies, areas of operation, or special notices. These information signs have a yellow background and support overall airport communication.

Types of Airports and Their Signage Needs

Whether it’s a commercial hub, private airstrip, or a municipal airport, the use of airport markings and airport signs is non-negotiable. The markings on the taxiway and the signage used will vary depending on traffic, layout, and the airport operator. Regardless of size, every airport requires clear, durable signage that ensures safety and order across all areas—from the side of the runway to parking aprons.

Shop Airport Safety Signs with Confidence

At Safety Decals, we offer a wide range of compliant airport sign solutions including taxiway location signs, direction signs, runway boundary signs, and more. Each sign is used to identify critical points across an airport, ensuring safer operations. You can also explore additional traffic and hazard signage for surrounding areas, such as our rest area signs, distance marker signs, and steep grade warning signs. For the most rugged environments, be sure to check out our aviation collection.

Our signage is built to withstand the elements and meets visibility standards across all types of airport environments. Whether you need a sign that has a yellow background or one that signs provide clear navigation using an arrow, we’ve got you covered. Trust Safety Decals to support your airport operations with high-quality, long-lasting signage.