Profile Evaluation using the Boeing Bump Index

Beyond APR's traditional roughness analysis, which includes aircraft simulation and straightedge evaluation, we also offer airports a specialized pavement assessment aligned with FAA AC 5380-9 using the Boeing Bump Index (BBI). By measuring the pavement profile and evaluating it through the BBI feature in ProFAA, this service provides a basic look into runway performance based on this key metric. Though it doesn’t encompass the depth of APR’s traditional ride quality analysis, the BBI evaluation offers a focused insight into runway profile performance, while complying with this specific FAA criteria.

Specializing in runway roughness evaluation for over 30 years, APR has identified specific limitations with the Boeing Bump Index (BBI) that could lead to misleading conclusions when used as a standalone analysis tool. The BBI, while effective for detecting specific forms of single-event roughness, is not effective at identifying more common forms of runway roughness such as multiple-event roughness.  This limitation means that relying solely on BBI may overlook specific profile characteristics that significantly affect aircraft performance and passenger comfort.

However, for airports seeking a quick, simplified “first look” to identify potential roughness issues, the BBI can still serve as a cost-effective alternative. This preliminary assessment can be an efficient way to flag areas that might require a deeper analysis, allowing airports to make informed decisions on whether a more comprehensive evaluation is warranted.