A runway is a designated strip of land at an airport where aircraft take off and land. It is typically made of asphalt or concrete and is marked with specific lines and lights to guide pilots. The length and width of a runway can vary depending on the type of aircraft it serves and the airport's location. Runways are crucial for the safe operation of flights, as they provide the necessary space for planes to accelerate to takeoff speed and to decelerate upon landing. Airports often have multiple runways to accommodate different flight paths and to manage air traffic efficiently, especially during busy travel times.