Advanced runway lighting systems are widely used by the air force for the safe and timely operations of the planes particularly during night operations and in bad weather conditions. These systems are crucial for enabling pilots to gain the right perspective of the airfield especially during takeoff, landing, and while taxying. This article aims at giving more insight into the items of the runway lighting systems in terms of their technology and available options.
Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL)
Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL) helps in making the visibility of the runway clear especially in poor visibility conditions. REILs are two flashing lights placed symmetrically, on one side of the threshold of the runway.
These lights have to be very bright as they ensure that the pilot recognizes the end of the runway and properly position the plane for a safe landing. Specifically, the REIL system is useful in identifying the runway especially in congested or busy airports with many runways.
Runway Edge Light Systems
The Runway Edge Light Systems are also used for demarcating the required sides of the runway with high importance. These lights are generally white and they are installed at equal distances starting from the beginning of the runway.
The Runway Edge Light Systems work to ensure that the pilot has a clear indication of the edges of the runway through the times that he or she is taking off or while landing. Thus, the Runway Edge Light Systems become a crucial prerequisite to maintaining a proper level of visibility in conditions of insufficient amount of light.
Runway Touchdown Zone Lighting (TDZL)
Starting with the threshold, for the first 3,000 feet of this runway, Runway Touchdown Zone Lighting (TDZL) is installed. These lights help provide the pilots with extra information on the route to choose and the area where they should land. TDZL comprises of a contiguous row of white lights located on one side and/or both sides of the runway centerline.
Pilots are able to land accurately because Runway Touchdown Zone Lighting (TDZL) lights up the touchdown zone therefore increasing the safety of aircrafts and the efficiency of runways.
