Aerodrome lighting systems are essential for the safe operation of aircraft, especially during night operations or low visibility conditions. These lighting systems guide pilots during approach, landing, taxiing, and takeoff.
Let’s break down the key lighting components you’ll find at an aerodrome—with clear visuals to make it all easier to understand.
1. Runway Lighting System
✅ Purpose:
To define the edges, threshold, and centerline of the runway during landing and takeoff.
💡 Components:
- Runway Edge Lights – White lights lining the edges of the runway.
- Runway Centerline Lights – White (later alternating red/white and red near the end).
- Threshold Lights – Green in the approach direction; red on the opposite side.
- Runway End Lights – Red, marking the end of the usable runway.
2. Approach Lighting System (ALS)
✅ Purpose:
Helps pilots align with the runway centerline during final approach.
💡 Features:
- Multiple light bars, strobe lights, or sequenced flashing lights (the “rabbit”).
- Extends from the runway threshold up to 900m (or more) into the approach area.
3. Taxiway Lighting System
✅ Purpose:
Guides aircraft along taxi routes, especially in poor visibility.
💡 Components:
- Taxiway Edge Lights – Blue lights outlining the edges.
- Taxiway Centerline Lights – Green lights marking the centerline.
- Stop Bar Lights – Red, used at runway entry points (controlled by ATC).
4. Apron Lighting
✅ Purpose:
Illuminates aircraft stands and parking areas to ensure safety during ground handling.
💡 Features:
- High-intensity floodlights mounted on masts.
- Positioned to avoid glare and provide uniform illumination.
5. Visual Approach Aids
🟩 PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator):
- Series of lights indicating if the aircraft is on the correct glide path.
- Two red + two white = On glide path
- More red = Too low | More white = Too high
📌 Summary Table
| Lighting Type | Color | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Runway Edge | White | Define edges of the runway |
| Threshold | Green (front) | Start of landing runway |
| End Lights | Red | End of the runway |
| Taxiway Edge | Blue | Taxi route edges |
| Taxiway Centerline | Green | Center of taxi routes |
| PAPI | Red/White | Glide path indication |
| ALS | White/Red | Align aircraft during approach |
🧠 Pro Tip for Pilots:
Always cross-check aerodrome lighting with your approach charts and NOTAMs for current configurations and limitations. Runway lighting may be pilot-controlled at smaller aerodromes.
