Definition
A NOTAM contraction used to describe a surface — typically a runway, taxiway, or ramp — that is uneven, broken, or in poor condition and not smooth enough to be considered normal for operations.
Plain English
The surface is bumpy or in bad shape. Pilots are being warned that it isn't smooth.
Context Anchor
Seen in NOTAMs describing airport surface conditions, especially runways, taxiways, ramps, or unpaved areas.
Derivation
Rough comes from Old English words meaning shaggy, coarse, or uneven. That helps here because a rough airport surface is not smooth or regular under the aircraft.
Why Pilots Care
A rough surface can damage tires, propellers, landing gear, and flight controls, and can make taxi, takeoff, or landing harder to control. Knowing a surface is rough lets the pilot decide whether to use it, slow down on it, or pick a different airport.
Intuition Check
Do not read rough as just a casual comment meaning “not ideal.” In this context, it means the surface condition may matter to aircraft movement and pilot decision-making.
Example Sentence 1
The NOTAM read "TWY B RUF," so the pilot taxied slowly and watched for damaged pavement.