Definition
A pattern of white rectangular bars painted on the runway in symmetrical pairs on either side of the centerline, beginning 500 feet from the runway threshold and continuing in groups (four, three, two, and one pair) at 500-foot intervals. They identify the portion of the runway intended for the first wheel contact during a normal landing.
Plain English
Painted white bars near the start of the runway that show the pilot where the airplane's wheels are supposed to first touch down.
Context Anchor
Seen on many runways used for instrument approaches, and referenced in approach minimums as part of the runway environment a pilot may identify before continuing to land.
Why Pilots Care
They confirm the correct landing point and help pilots judge remaining runway distance for safe rollout.
Intuition Check
Do not confuse touchdown zone markings with tire skid marks. These are deliberate white painted runway markings, not rubber left by previous landings.
Example Sentence 1
After breaking out of the clouds at minimums, the pilot spotted the touchdown zone markings and continued the approach to landing.
Example Sentence 2
Even in reduced visibility the touchdown zone markings remained visible and guided the landing.