Which of the following is a plausible set of options where the correct answer is to stop before the runway?

• A. They authorize crossing all taxiways
• B. They authorize crossing only taxiways that intersect the route
• C. They authorize crossing only taxiways that do not intersect the route
• D. They require you to stop before the runway

Answer: (D)

Holding short of a runway is the precise action ATC expects when you’re instructed not to cross the runway boundary. When you’re told to stop before the runway, you must stop at the hold-short point and wait for a separate clearance to cross or to enter the runway. This ensures that the runway is clear of traffic and that no accidental incursions occur.

If you’re told to stop before the runway, there’s no permission to cross any taxiways or intersections you might be approaching. The options that suggest you may cross certain taxiways (whether all, or only those intersecting your route, or only those not intersecting your route) would conflict with a direct hold-short instruction. The only option that aligns with the instruction to stop before the runway is the one that states you must stop before the runway. Once you receive explicit clearance to cross, you can proceed according to that clearance.