What does the term "Runway Incursion" refer to?

The term "Runway Incursion" specifically refers to the unauthorized entry of an aircraft, vehicle, or person onto an active runway. This is a critical safety concern in aviation, as it can lead to potentially disastrous situations, including collisions between departing or arriving aircraft and those that have improperly entered the runway space.

Understanding runway incursions is vital for maintaining airfield safety protocols, assisting pilots, and ensuring that air traffic control operations run smoothly. Incursions can occur due to miscommunications, failure to follow procedures, or lapses in situational awareness. The focus on preventing these incidents highlights the importance of strict adherence to runway access rules and regulations to safeguard aviation operations. Hence, this choice accurately encapsulates the definition and implications of runway incursions in aviation safety.