What is the purpose of a Runway End Safety Area (RESA)?

The purpose of a Runway End Safety Area (RESA) is fundamentally aimed at enhancing safety for overrun incidents. A RESA is a designated area located beyond the end of the runway that provides additional distance for an aircraft that may overrun the runway. This safety buffer is crucial in the event of a runway excursion, as it allows an aircraft more room to decelerate and reduces the potential for impact with obstacles or hazards beyond the runway. The design and implementation of RESAs are guided by international safety standards, emphasizing their importance in reducing the likelihood of serious accidents during landing or takeoff.

The other options, while related to aspects of airport safety, do not accurately capture the primary function of a RESA. Increasing runway length pertains to runway design rather than safety margins. Supporting aircraft taxiing during emergencies relates more to taxiway design and operational procedures than to runway ends. Preventing runway incursions involves different safety measures focused on ensuring that only authorized aircraft are present on runways and taxiways, which is not the specific intent of a RESA. Thus, the primary goal of a RESA—providing additional safety during potential overrun incidents—highlights the essential aspect of runway safety regulation.