Aeronautical Ground Lighting (AGL): The Path to Intelligent Airfield
In a world where airports are constantly pressured to expand their capacity to accommodate the ever-growing demands of the aviation industry. The aviation landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by a confluence of factors: increasing cost pressures, passengers' insatiable appetite for a seamless and high-quality travel experience and a heightened focus on sustainability and safety. In the midst of these challenges, airports are reimagining their operations, seeking innovative ways to maximize the utility of their existing infrastructure.
This line of thinking has given rise to a visionary concept – the Intelligent Airfield. At the heart of this concept lies a crucial component: Aeronautical Ground Lighting (AGL). Effective management of AGL assumes a pivotal role in maintaining safety, operational cost-efficiency and the optimal management of airfield capacity. Today, in this article we will explore this lesser-known element, its core components and regulatory bodies which govern standards for operational and technical aspects.
The Core Components of AGL Systems
AGL systems are an amalgamation of precision and complexity. The key components include:
I.Runway Lighting
Edge Lights: These lights define the lateral boundaries of the runway, meticulously positioned to ensure visibility during takeoffs and landings.
Threshold Lights: Precisely placed at the beginning of the runway, threshold lights are engineered to guide pilots during their critical decision-making phase.
Centerline Lights: These luminaires provide pilots with a visual alignment reference during takeoff and landing, offering pinpoint accuracy.
II.Taxiway Lighting
Centerline Lights: With strict placement and luminance requirements, centerline lights ensure that taxiing aircraft stay on course.
Lead-On Lights: They assist pilots in entering and exiting the runway, improving maneuverability.
Rapid Exit Taxiway Lights: Designed for safe high-speed exits, these lights enhance ground movement efficiency.
III.Approach Lighting Systems
Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI): A critical component of approach lighting, PAPI systems utilize a series of light units to indicate if an aircraft is too high or too low on its approach path.
Visual Approach Slope Indicator (VASI): VASI systems provide pilots with visual cues to help maintain the correct approach angle.
Decision Height (DH) Lights: These lights are strategically positioned to mark the decision height, where pilots must decide whether to continue or abort the landing.
The Role of ICAO and IEC
ICAO, the International Civil Aviation Organization, is instrumental in shaping international standards for AGL. This organization was formed to develop the principles and techniques of international air navigation, fostering the planning and development of international air transport. ICAO has outlined operational requirements that specify essential standards for AGL components, ensuring their interface with aircraft pilots. These standards cover design, installation, operation and maintenance of AGL systems, all of which are mandatory for every Contracting State.
Technical requirements bridge the gap between operational requirements and engineering implementation. They translate operational necessities into engineering specifications, encompassing tests and approval or rejection criteria. These technical requirements are typically established by standardization organizations.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has taken a significant role in developing international standards for AGL. IEC's Technical Committee 97 (TC 97) focuses on creating standards for the design, installation, operation and maintenance of aeronautical ground lighting systems. These standards ensure that AGL systems meet international safety and performance criteria. Importantly, IEC standards are voluntary, providing flexibility for different aviation authorities and organizations to adopt them as needed.
GEMS: Your Trusted Partner in AGL and Airport Electrical Systems
With a track record of managing over 20,000 AGL light fixtures, the capability to handle 350+ CCR units and a commitment to technical excellence, we bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Our practical, innovative and cost-effective solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each project.
If you need any services, drop us a mail at Rohitkumar.Singh@gmrgroup.in or get in touch with us at +919717199753.
