What is the purpose of the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS)?

The Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is specifically designed to enhance safety on runways by reducing the likelihood of aircraft overruns. This system consists of a specially formulated material that crushes under the weight of an aircraft, creating a deceleration effect that helps stop an aircraft that has accidentally exceeded the runway length during landing.

By effectively absorbing the energy and slowing the aircraft down, EMAS serves to mitigate the consequences of an overrun, thus contributing significantly to overall flight safety. This function is particularly crucial for airports with shorter runways or those that do not have sufficient space for traditional stopways.

The other options do not align with the primary purpose of EMAS. For instance, increasing the speed of departing aircraft or controlling the altitude of landing aircraft does not relate to the safety measures associated with preventing overruns. Similarly, expanding runway length is not a function of EMAS, as it serves as an additional safety measure rather than a structural enhancement.