Which feature defines the protected area around the runway to ensure safe approach and departure?

• A. Minimum runway widths and lengths
• B. Approach and departure clearance surfaces
• C. Clear zones next to and at end of runways
• D. Standards for airfield markings

Answer: (B)

Approach and departure clearance surfaces define the protected area around the runway that ensures safe approach and departure. These surfaces are specifically drawn to provide obstacle-free paths for the final approach and the initial climb-out, with defined width, length, and slopes so any structures or terrain above those boundaries would threaten safety and thus must be removed or mitigated. This concept directly describes a protected airspace around the runway for flight paths during critical phases. Other choices describe runway dimensions, obstacle-free zones, or marking standards, which are important for operation and safety but do not define the formal protected surfaces used to guarantee safe approach and departure paths.