What does the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) help prevent?

The Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is specifically designed to help prevent aircraft overruns during landing. This system consists of specialized materials placed at the end of runways, which are designed to decelerate aircraft that accidentally overshoot the runway. When an aircraft touches down and continues beyond the runway limits, the EMAS provides a cushioned surface that helps slow down the aircraft effectively, thereby reducing the risk of serious accidents or runway excursions.

The intentional design of EMAS is to absorb energy and provide a safe stopping mechanism, which is crucial when an aircraft lands longer than anticipated or has a malfunction. This system plays a critical role in enhancing the safety of airport operations, particularly on runways where space or clearance beyond the end of the runway is limited.