Circular Runways

[PeteC]

Why not? Convincing the industry and governments though may take 3 lifetimes. Pete

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-39284294

[RCer]

Okay, were's the STUPID button? Only possible way for this to work is for the plane to be 100% under computer control.

Humans can't make the fine adjustments necessary for landing fast enough on that runway.

[HHTel]

Auto pilot landings have been well developed for years. Currently they're only used when visibility is low but they can be used at any time. So for a circular runway, auto-landings would have to be the norm.

[Gregjam]

Interesting concept. I did not see any mention of the safety zone required around the runway. If something goes wrong During landing would think that a plane would go outside of the runway due to centripetal force. Using present straight runways the plane stands a chance of staying on or near the runway improving access for emergency services.
I am not an expert so wiser souls please feel free to correct me.

[Ginjaninja]

'wall of death'..

[Bristolian]

If we could spin the runway as in roulette it would really make landings and take-offs interesting.

Thai airport engineers, anxious to make Thailand a hub, would probably design the helter shelter version for the final 1000m of descent.

Total crackpot idea unless you live on a very small island and equip the plane with floats or land it on a string

[kendo]

Throw in a few variables like cross winds and the dark.

[Stargeezer]

Circular runways are for helicopters, not for giant airliners that land
at over 100 MPH or 160 KPH, and as mentioned by Kendo what about the crosswind factors and
other mechanical failures that aircraft still have today, this is a hair brained concept at best.
Geezer