Definition
A runway whose surface rises in elevation along the direction of landing, so the far end is higher than the approach end. On final approach, an upsloping runway creates the visual illusion that the aircraft is higher than it actually is, prompting the pilot to fly a lower-than-normal approach.
Plain English
A runway that tilts uphill as you land on it. Because it slopes up toward you, your eyes are tricked into thinking you are too high, so you tend to come in too low.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument flying and visual approach discussions, especially when learning about runway slope optical illusions.
Why Pilots Care
The illusion can cause a pilot to lower the nose or delay the flare, resulting in landing short or a hard touchdown.
Grounding Statement
Picture the far end of the runway sitting higher than the end nearest you; that rising surface can make a normal approach look high.
Intuition Check
Do not assume an upsloping runway simply means the airport is on high ground. It means the runway surface rises in the landing direction you are using.
Example Sentence 1
Briefing the approach into the mountain strip, the pilot reminded herself that the upsloping runway would make her feel high and that she should fly the published glidepath rather than chase the visual.
Example Sentence 2
Landing on an upsloping runway at night requires extra attention because the visual cues can make the runway appear farther away.