Hello All,I was wondering how STAR's and landing runways are selected in real live. Are they selected by the pilot before take-off or are they appointed by ATC in-flight? If the pilot can select them how does he know which landing runway to choose (especialy on long flights when wind conditions can change)?Thanks,Huppel

Hi there,Runway(s) in use are usually selected by the tower depending on current wind condition or possible construction work, maintenance etc. This information is then broadcast through ATIS. However any pilot may request a specific runway (provided it is not closed). For example very heavy aircraft may want to use the longest available runway for take-off etc. Most of the time the controller will grant such requests as long as it does not interfere too much with the main traffic flow.STARS are dependent on the runway(s) in use as well as the direction of the incoming aircraft. The approach controller will issue the STARS upon initial contact. (i.e 'N12345 radar contact, expect XYZ arrival for RWY 33.....)Hope this helps.

Note that many STARs do not even specify a particular runway. They are designed to take you from the jetway/airway system to the terminal area where they either hook up to an approach or get you in position for radar vectoring. Pilots (or airlines) decide on which DPs/STARs to use before filing the flight plan for the flight - the STAR is part of the filed route. ATC will try to clear you for the filed route, but it is possible that they have to adjust and give you a modified route, even while you are in the air.-Florian

Thanks Guys!Just what I wanted to know.Greetings,Huppel