Stopway

Stopway

SWY

Description

In aviation, Stopway (SWY) is a term related to the dimension of some runways. The stopway is an area beyond the runway which can be used for deceleration in the event of a rejected takeoff. It must be:

  • At least as wide as the runway
  • Centered upon the runway extended centerline
  • Capable of supporting the aeroplane during an aborted takeoff without causing structural damage to the aircraft
  • Designated by the airport authorities for use in decelerating the airplane during an aborted takeoff

Stopways are identified by large yellow chevrons on either end of the main runway.

A stopway marked by large yellow chevrons

When a stopway exists, the length of the runway plus the length of the stopway equals the Accelerate Stop Distance Available (ASDA)

Stopway in ASDA calculations

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Cite This Page SKYbrary Aviation Safety. (June 25, 2022). Stopway. Retrieved February 2, 2026 from https://skybrary.aero/articles/stopway UID: 1644
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