Learn what an unreported runway condition code or “NR” means, why it is not code 6, and what pilots should check before using performance data.
In real-world aviation, an unreported runway condition code means no numerical RWYCC has been supplied for that runway or runway third. It does not automatically mean dry, code 6, closed or unsafe. Pilots must use the full runway report, weather and approved operating procedures rather than inventing a numerical value.
What does “NR” actually mean?
NR means “not reported”; it is a reporting status, not a seventh runway condition code. If NR appears in one position of a three-part report, only that runway third lacks a numerical code. The other reported thirds remain valid.
The RWYCC scale runs from 0 to 6, with lower numbers indicating poorer expected braking. Our explanation of how the RWYCC scale and runway thirds work covers the numerical values themselves.
| Display | What it means | What it does not prove |
|---|---|---|
| 0–6 | A numerical RWYCC has been assigned | That conditions cannot change after observation |
| 6 | The highest RWYCC, normally associated with a dry runway third | That isolated hazards are impossible |
| NR | No numerical code is reported for that third | Dry, closed or automatically unusable |
| Blank application field | The application or data feed has no value to display | That an official report explicitly said NR |
Do not guess the order of a code triplet. Interpret the first, middle and last thirds using the runway designator and reporting format specified by the relevant authority.
Why might a runway condition code not be reported?
A code may be absent because no qualifying assessment has been issued, the available information does not support assigning one, or local reporting criteria have not been triggered.
- The runway has no active contamination report under that authority’s procedures.
- Contaminant coverage in a runway third is below the threshold used to generate a code in that reporting system.
- The airport has reported descriptive information but not a numerical RWYCC.
- The official report has expired, been cancelled or is awaiting reassessment.
- An EFB, application or data provider has not received the field, even though another operational source may contain it.
Reporting rules are not identical worldwide. In some circumstances, no active condition report commonly accompanies a dry runway; in others, NR can appear beside reported contamination. That is why absence alone is not evidence of a dry surface.
Can pilots assume an unreported code is 6?
No. Pilots should not replace NR with code 6 unless an approved operating procedure explicitly permits that treatment and all its conditions are satisfied.
- Verify the source and time. Check that the report applies to the correct airport, runway direction and expected operating period.
- Read the complete report. Look for contaminant type, depth, coverage, remarks and any codes assigned to the other runway thirds.
- Cross-check operational broadcasts. The latest ATIS runway and weather information may identify a newer report or confirm that details are unavailable.
- Ask for clarification. ATC, dispatch or airport operations may be able to relay an updated condition report, although ATC does not calculate aircraft stopping performance.
- Use approved performance data. If the available information cannot support a valid calculation, use the operator’s conservative procedure, select another runway, delay the operation or divert as appropriate.
Runway state affects both the required take-off and landing distance calculation and the choice of airliner autobrake setting. An assumed code can therefore produce an unjustifiably short stopping-distance result.
Does NR mean the runway is closed?
No. Runway closure is a separate operational status. NR provides neither permission to use the runway nor evidence that it is unsuitable; pilots still need the runway’s open or closed status, clearances and performance assessment.
Is missing braking-action information the same as NR?
No. A RWYCC is an airport surface assessment, while braking-action information may come from pilot reports or other observations. The absence of a braking-action report does not cancel an existing RWYCC, and an unreported RWYCC must not be replaced by a guessed braking value.
What does “not reported” mean in a flight simulator?
In a flight simulator or add-on EFB, “not reported” may reflect an incomplete data feed or an unimplemented runway-condition system rather than a simulated airport assessment. For realistic procedure practice, treat it as unknown and check the simulated weather and ATIS; do not assume the simulator’s braking physics correspond to an official RWYCC.