Since the first runway became operational over a century ago, airport lighting technology has taken off, increasing safety and improving runway efficiency with new innovations that continue to revolutionize our industry.  Advancements such as LEDs, runway edge lights, airport lighting control and management systems (ALCMS), precision approach path indicators (PAPI), and other innovations have transformed how airports manage aircraft traffic.

As suppliers of airport lighting and power equipment to airports worldwide, we’re responsible for ensuring our products comply with the relevant regulatory bodies that enact strict standards on airport operations within their jurisdictions.  These regulatory compliance standards are in place to ensure airport safety, improve operational efficiency, and help minimize service disruptions.

Airport facility managers understand the critical role of reliable power and control systems in ensuring safe, efficient aircraft and runway operations. Issues such as power surges and voltage fluctuations can pose serious safety hazards without the right power and control systems in place to provide continuous energy supply.

Airport lighting technology has come a long way since early 20th-century innovators placed incandescent lights along runways to help guide pilots during takeoff and landing. With the rise of LED lighting and integrated control systems, the sky has proven to be the limit when it comes to technology that manages inbound and outbound air traffic. 

Many Airport Lighting Control And Monitoring Systems (ALCMS) contain an L-854 radio decoder to enable pilot control during landing. It is essential to regularly maintain and troubleshoot this equipment so pilots can activate the airfield lighting system via their air-to-ground radio. This month, we thought we’d provide an L-854 unit maintenance checklist to help your ALCMS operate smoothly and reliably on an ongoing basis, ensuring safe and efficient airport and runway operations.

Modern aviation infrastructure demands the latest in tech innovations to ensure the safe taking off, taxing, and landing of aircrafts, especially in adverse weather conditions, low visibility, and challenging terrain. One of these indispensable tools of airport safety is Precision Approach Lighting Systems (PALS).