Airfield lighting

Airfield lighting covers illuminated signals which assist pilots visually to navigate aircraft by day and night. Automatic landing aids have not replaced airfield lighting; within limits a pilot can use the visual signals to monitor an automatic landing but the only guidance on the runway and taxiways is that provided by the airfield lighting. The theory of how a pilot uses visual signals to assist in manoeuvring an aircraft is outlined to explain the lighting patterns used today. The paper presents airfield lighting as an integrated system of luminaires, equipment and circuits and gives guidance on operation and maintenance. Difficulties in luminaire design and present and future developments are discussed. A plea is made for adoption of the best airfield lighting now available, plus stricter design, operation and statutory controls.