What is the function of runway intersection hold short markings?

Runway intersection hold short markings serve a crucial function in maintaining safety and order at an airport by designating specific points where aircraft must stop before entering a runway. These markings are painted on the taxiways leading up to a runway and provide clear visual guidance to pilots. When pilots encounter these markings, they are required to hold short of the runway to ensure that no aircraft are on the runway at that time.

This is essential for preventing collisions between taxing aircraft and those that are either landing or taking off. By clearly defining where to hold short, these markings help to minimize the risk of runway incursions, enhancing the overall safety of airport operations. The other options do not accurately represent the primary purpose of these markings; they focus on other aspects of runway and taxiway usage instead.