What is the ACN/PCN reporting method used for?

The ACN/PCN reporting method is specifically designed to express the aircraft's structural effect on pavement. ACN stands for Aircraft Classification Number, and it quantifies the impact that a specific aircraft has on the pavement structure. PCN stands for Pavement Classification Number, which indicates the strength of the pavement itself. Together, these numbers help determine whether a pavement can safely bear the weight and stress of particular aircraft types without sustaining damage. This method is crucial for ensuring safe operations at airports, as it helps airport authorities assess whether the runway or taxiway will perform adequately under the operational demands of various aircraft, thus directly tying into aircraft structural interactions with the pavement.