Definition
Two parallel runways whose centerlines are separated by less than 4,300 feet, and which have an Approach Procedure with Authorization Required (PRM Approach) published. Simultaneous independent approaches to close parallel runways require specialized monitoring and procedures because the runways are too close together for normal independent parallel operations.
Plain English
Two runways that run side by side and point the same direction, but are spaced closer together than the usual minimum for independent operations. Because they are close, special procedures and monitoring are used so aircraft can land on both at the same time safely.
Context Anchor
You will see this term in approach procedures, airport operations, and ATC discussions about using parallel runways at the same time.
Why Pilots Care
Determines whether pilots must use Precision Runway Monitor procedures and tighter separation standards during simultaneous ILS approaches.
Analogy
Think of two straight lanes running side by side. If the lanes are within a certain distance of each other, extra spacing rules matter because traffic in one lane can affect traffic in the other.
Intuition Check
“Close” does not just mean the runways look near each other on an airport diagram. Here it means a specific FAA spacing range measured between the runways’ extended centerlines.
Example Sentence 1
Before accepting the approach into Minneapolis, the crew reviewed the close parallel runways PRM brief and set up the second radio to monitor the override frequency.
Example Sentence 2
At airports with close parallel runways, arriving pilots must monitor the PRM frequency throughout the approach.