What is the main purpose of defined safety areas adjacent to runways and taxiways?

The main purpose of defined safety areas adjacent to runways and taxiways is to reduce the risk of damage to aircraft. These safety areas, also known as Runway Safety Areas (RSAs) and Taxiway Safety Areas (TSAs), are designed to provide a buffer zone that can absorb the impact if an aircraft goes off the runway or taxiway. This area helps ensure that any unintended excursions from established paths do not pose a significant risk to the aircraft or exacerbate potential incidents.

While emergency landings are essential considerations in airport design, the primary function of these safety areas is to minimize damage rather than serve as a designated space for aircraft that need to land unexpectedly. Supporting aircraft loading operations and providing additional parking space do not align with the safety focus of these defined areas; rather, they are operational aspects distinct from the purpose of safeguarding runways and taxiways.