What is the primary purpose of a runway at an airfield?

The primary purpose of a runway at an airfield is to serve as a defined rectangular area specifically designed for aircraft to land and take off. The runway is constructed to handle the high speeds and significant forces experienced during these critical phases of flight. It is typically made of materials that can withstand large weights and is marked to guide pilots for safe operations.

While taxiways, parking spaces, and maintenance areas are essential components of an airfield, they serve different functions: taxiways are for guiding aircraft between the runway and other areas, parking spaces are for stationary aircraft, and maintenance areas are designated for servicing and repairing aircraft. Thus, the runway's unique role as the zone where aircraft engage in the critical actions of landing and takeoff underscores its primary purpose.