AGL Component Library By Precision AGL Academy

Approach Lighting

The light array extending outward from the runway threshold that establishes alignment before the runway itself is visible, supporting the transition from instrument approach to visual reference in low-visibility conditions.

Approach Lighting

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Overview

What Is It?

Approach lighting extends outward from the runway threshold along the extended runway centreline, giving a pilot a visual bridge between the end of an instrument approach and the point where the runway environment itself becomes visible. Where runway lighting takes over once the runway is in sight, approach lighting is what gets the aircraft there in the first place under reduced visibility.

The configuration, length and complexity of the approach lighting system are matched to the runway's approach category — a non-precision approach may need only a short, simple system, while a CAT II/III precision approach runway requires an extensive, high-intensity array with crossbars and sequenced flashing lights.

Purpose

Purpose & Function

Approach lighting's purpose is to bridge the gap between the end of an instrument approach, where the pilot is flying on instruments alone, and the point where the runway environment becomes visually identifiable — a transition that, in low visibility, is exactly where a pilot needs unambiguous visual guidance the most. By presenting a progressively converging, lengthening pattern that resolves toward the threshold, the system gives the pilot confidence that they are aligned and on the correct approach path before the runway itself is in sight, which is why the length and intensity of the system scale directly with approach category — the lower the visibility a runway is certified for, the more of this visual bridge a pilot needs before natural visual reference takes over.

Application

Where Is It Used?

Approach lighting systems are installed on the approach side of runway thresholds serving instrument or precision approaches:

  • Approach Light Bars: Rows of lights spaced along the extended centreline, forming the main body of the system.
  • Crossbars: Lateral bars at specified distances from the threshold, giving the pilot a horizon/roll reference during approach.
  • Centreline Lighting: Reinforces alignment with the runway centreline extended beyond the threshold.
  • Sequenced Flashing Lights: Used on higher-category systems, flashing in sequence toward the runway to draw the eye along the approach path.
  • Threshold Lighting: Marks the transition point from approach lighting to runway lighting.

System configuration (e.g. simple approach lighting, ALSF-2, CALVERT-type systems) is determined by the runway's approach category under the applicable ICAO or FAA standard.

Placement

Installation & Location

The full array is set out along the extended runway centreline beyond the threshold, with each light bar and crossbar positioned at the surveyed distances specified for the runway's approach category, since the system's guidance value depends on that geometry matching the certified design exactly. Structures supporting the lights — individual frangible poles for elevated bars, or inset cans where the terrain allows a flush installation — are set at heights that keep the beam pattern aimed correctly along the approach path while remaining frangible in the event of an aircraft undershoot. Because the array frequently extends off airport property into surrounding terrain, wetlands, or waterways, foundations and access routes are planned around what the specific site allows, sometimes using elevated piled structures over soft ground or water. Power and control cabling for the full array is run back to the approach lighting's own regulator circuits, kept independent from the runway's own lighting circuits so a fault in one system doesn't take down the other during the approach phase where both are needed simultaneously.

Function

How Does It Work?

Approach lighting fixtures — particularly on higher-category systems — sit on elevated structures or frangible masts extending into the approach area, often over difficult or unprepared terrain. Each fixture is still fed through the same series-circuit architecture as runway and taxiway lighting, but approach systems more frequently use higher-intensity fixtures and, where fitted, a separate control system for sequenced flashing lights.

Key functional aspects include:

  • Progressive Visual Guidance: The array is read by the pilot as a lengthening, converging pattern that resolves into the runway threshold.
  • Sequenced Flashing: On systems that include it, lights flash in a moving sequence toward the runway, strengthening the visual cue in marginal visibility.
  • Structural Considerations: Approach lighting structures must be frangible (designed to break away on impact) given their position in the approach obstacle-limitation surface.
  • Category-Dependent Length: System length and light density scale directly with the runway's approach category — CAT I, II and III systems are markedly different in extent.
Architecture

System Architecture & Control Logic

Approach lighting is controlled the same way as runway and taxiway circuits — as a loop, not fixture by fixture — but it is kept on its own dedicated series circuit(s) rather than sharing the runway's loops. An ALCMS or tower command sets the intensity step appropriate to the approach category and prevailing visibility, and this is passed to the approach lighting's own CCR, which regulates the whole loop to the corresponding current. On systems with sequenced flashing lights, a separate sequencing controller drives the flash pattern independently of the fixture intensity itself, so brightness and flash timing can be commanded and monitored as two distinct control functions.

Keeping the approach system's circuit and fault reporting separate from the runway's matters operationally: both systems are needed simultaneously during an approach in low visibility, so a fault on one loop is reported and can be worked on without affecting the other.

ALCMS → Approach CCR → (Sequencing Controller) → Isolating Transformer → Fixture (loop-level feedback)

ALCMS / TOWER Selects approach lighting intensity step and (where fitted) flash-sequence command APPROACH CCR (DEDICATED CIRCUIT) Regulates loop current — independent of the runway's own CCR circuits SEQUENCING CONTROLLER Higher-category systems only — drives flash timing toward the runway ISOLATING TRANSFORMER (PER FIXTURE) Taps fixed loop current to each light bar / crossbar fixture LOOP-LEVEL CONTROL, SEPARATE FROM RUNWAY Approach array switches and dims as its own loop Kept independent so a runway lighting fault doesn't take down approach guidance, or vice versa LOOP FEEDBACK CCR tracks loop voltage against commanded current; a rise flags an open circuit or failed transformer/segment
System Integration

Circuit & System Overview

Aircraft Instrument approach Approach Light Bars On elevated, frangible masts over approach terrain Crossbar Horizon / roll reference Sequenced flashing travels toward runway Threshold Lighting Approach → runway handover Runway Lighting Takes Over Edge, centreline & touchdown zone systems continue guidance Same Series-Circuit Feed, Different Structure Each fixture is still fed by a CCR through its own isolating transformer, but sits on an elevated, frangible mast rather than a flush runway fitting — and, on higher categories, adds a separate sequencing controller to drive the flashing pattern independently of fixture intensity

The approach lighting array is read as a single converging picture rather than as individual fixtures — light bars lengthening, a crossbar establishing the horizon, and (where fitted) a flashing sequence drawing the eye forward — resolving into the threshold before runway lighting takes over.

Construction

Physical Construction

The physical system is built from individual lamp heads and light bars, each of standard frangible-pole or inset-fixture construction, but assembled across a dedicated structure of piers, frangible poles, or — where the approach crosses water, wetlands, or a road — raised platforms and bridge-type supports tied to a common foundation line. Where elevated, every pole in the array shares a frangible coupling near its base so the structure yields safely on impact rather than presenting a rigid obstruction; where terrain allows, sections may instead use inset cans consistent with taxiway or runway practice. Cabling for the full array runs in duct or cable tray along the pier line back to the approach lighting's own control cabinet, with an isolating transformer at each fixture and, on systems with sequenced flashing lights, a separate control cable run alongside the series-circuit power feed for the flasher timing signal. Foundation design, pier spacing, and support-structure type are driven site-by-site by what the specific terrain under the approach path allows.

Specification

Technical Parameters

ParameterTypical Value
System TypesICAO: simple approach lighting system; precision approach CAT I, and CAT II/III systems (Calvert-type centreline and crossbars). FAA: ALSF-1, ALSF-2, MALSR, MALSF, SSALR, SSALF, ODALS
Typical LengthICAO simple system: centreline ≥ 420 m from threshold (900 m preferred). ICAO precision CAT I/II/III: 900 m. FAA ALSF-2: 2,400 ft (≈720 m); MALSR: 2,400 ft including the RAIL section
Crossbar ColourVariable white centreline and crossbars. CAT II/III systems add red side row barrettes over the inner 270 m, and FAA ALSF-2 adds red side rows plus a red terminating bar
Sequenced Flashing LightsNot category-exclusive — fitted to ALSF-1 (CAT I) and MALSR (non-precision/CAT I) as well as ALSF-2. Under ICAO they may be added to an approach lighting system where an operational need is identified
Structure TypeFrangible masts / elevated structures in the approach obstacle-limitation surface
Circuit TypeSeries circuit fed by CCR, with separate control for sequenced flashing where fitted
Intensity StepsFive steps on the steady-burning approach lighting CCR (100 / 30 / 10 / 3 / 1% of rated intensity). Sequenced flashers, where fitted, have their own three-step control
StandardsICAO Annex 14 Vol I Ch. 5 and Appendix 2; FAA AC 150/5340-30; EASA CS-ADR-DSN; IEC 61827
Power Supply

Electrical Requirements

RequirementTypical Value
Circuit TypeSeries circuit, constant current (CCR fed); sequenced flashers on a separate control circuit where fitted
Rated Series Current6.6A (3 to 5-step: 2.8A / 3.4A / 4.1A / 5.2A / 6.6A)
IsolationEach luminaire fed via a dedicated isolating transformer, not directly connected to the series loop
Cable TypeL-824 single-conductor, direct-burial rated, 5kV or 600V per circuit design
ConnectorL-823 primary connector, submersible-rated splice
Insulation Resistance≥ 50 MΩ (megger test, cable-to-ground)
Earthing/GroundingMast/structure and base cans bonded to the airfield earth grid, with lightning protection on elevated frangible masts
Fault ProtectionCCR-level ground fault and open-circuit detection
Sequenced Flasher ControlSeparate low-voltage trigger circuit from a flasher controller, synchronised along the approach run
Power SourceCCR output, regulated per ICAO/FAA intensity step schedule
Optical Performance

Photometric Requirements

ParameterTypical Value
Main Beam Intensity (White, Centreline/Crossbar)≥ 12,000 cd on-axis, up to 20,000 cd at full intensity
Main Beam Intensity (Red, Side/Terminating Row)≥ 5,000 cd on-axis, up to 8,000 cd at full intensity
Sequenced Flasher IntensitySpecified as effective intensity (Blondel–Rey, 0.2 s constant), not peak candela — 15,000 cd unidirectional high step under the FAA discharge flashing light specification, with medium and low steps at 1,500 cd and 300 cd
Beam PatternUnidirectional, aimed along the extended runway centreline within the approach obstacle-limitation surface
Isocandela DistributionPer ICAO Annex 14 Vol I Appendix 2 isocandela diagrams for approach centreline and crossbar lights, or the equivalent FAA figures for the system type
ChromaticityWithin the ICAO Annex 14 Appendix 1 white or red boundary as applicable (CIE coordinates)
Flash Rate (Sequenced Units)The sequence repeats twice per second (120 cycles/min) in ALSF and MALSR/RAIL installations, and once per second in ODALS — a fixed characteristic, not an adjustable range
Intensity Tolerance± 25% of rated value at each CCR step (field measurement)
Serviceability ThresholdA light is treated as unserviceable when its main beam average intensity falls below 50% of the specified value — and for CAT II/III operations Annex 14 sets minimum percentages of serviceable approach lights that must be maintained, so the count of failed units matters as much as the output of any one
Test MethodMobile photometric van/goniophotometer or fixed test bench, per fixture and row
Compliance

Applicable Standards

ICAO Annex 14

International standards for approach lighting configuration by approach category

FAA AC 150/5340-30

Design and Installation Details for Airport Visual Aids (covers approach lighting configurations including MALSF, ALSF-2, and ODALS)

IS 7785 (Part 1)

Elevated type aerodrome lighting fittings — general requirements (Bureau of Indian Standards). Note it covers fitting construction, not approach lighting system geometry

ICAO Doc 9157 Part 4

Aerodrome Design Manual, Visual Aids — approach lighting design guidance and configuration drawings

EASA CS-ADR-DSN

Certification specifications for aerodrome design — Book 1 visual aids

FAA AC 150/5345-51

Specification for Discharge-Type Flashing Light Equipment — applies where sequenced flashers are fitted

DGCA CAR Section 4

Indian regulatory requirements for aerodrome lighting

Note on figures: the values on this page are typical reference figures drawn from the standards listed above and from manufacturers’ published data. Requirements differ between ICAO, FAA and national regimes, and between aerodrome code numbers, approach categories and equipment types. Always design, install, commission and maintain to the project specification, the manufacturer’s manual and the standard in force at the aerodrome.

Prerequisites

Installation Requirements

Foundation & Pier Line Set-Out
Civil

Survey and set out the pier or pole foundation line to the design spacing before any structure is cast, since foundation design and support-structure type are driven site-by-site by the terrain under the approach path.

Water/Wetland/Road Crossing Structures
Civil

Where the approach crosses water, wetlands, or a road, install the raised platform or bridge-type support tied to the common foundation line before fixtures are mounted.

Duct/Tray Run Along Pier Line
Electrical

Lay cabling in duct or cable tray along the full pier line back to the approach lighting's own control cabinet, keeping the run continuous across every pier in the array.

Per-Fixture Isolating Transformer
Electrical

Install and terminate an isolating transformer at each fixture per standard series-circuit practice, matched to the lamp head or light bar it feeds.

Sequenced Flasher Control Run
Electrical

Where sequenced flashing lights are fitted, install the separate control cable run alongside the series-circuit power feed, keeping the timing signal path distinct from the power path.

Frangible Coupling Fixing
Mechanical

Torque each pole's frangible coupling near its base to the specified value, since the structure must yield safely on impact rather than presenting a rigid obstruction.

Pre-Energisation Sign-off
Documentation

Record pier positions, cable routing, transformer assignments, and frangible coupling torque values as-built before the array is first energised.

Verification

Testing & Commissioning

Insulation Resistance Test
Pre-Energisation

Megger-test each series circuit and crossbar feeder before energisation, confirming insulation resistance clears the acceptable minimum along the approach.

Loop Continuity & Resistance Test
Pre-Energisation

Verify series loop continuity end to end for every crossbar and centreline segment, ruling out open circuits before first energisation.

Sequenced Flasher Timing Verification
Energisation

Confirm the sequenced flasher lamps fire in the correct order and timing along the approach, matching the design sequencing rate.

Photometric & Alignment Check
Final Acceptance

Measure beam intensity and confirm elevation/azimuth of each crossbar and centreline light against the design aiming diagram.

CCR Brightness Step Response
Energisation

Cycle the CCR through every intensity step and confirm the full approach lighting array responds correctly at each.

Documentation & As-Built Sign-off
Final Acceptance

Record insulation, continuity, timing, and photometric readings alongside as-built layout in the commissioning dossier for handover.

Upkeep

Inspection & Maintenance

Structural & Frangible Mast Inspection
Annual

Check masts and elevated structures for corrosion, wind fatigue, and frangible-coupling condition, since these sit in exposed approach terrain.

Light Bar Alignment Check
Semi-annual

Confirm each light bar's aim and spacing remain within tolerance so the converging approach picture is presented correctly to arriving aircraft.

Sequenced Flashing System Test
Semi-annual

On CAT II/III systems, verify the sequencing controller drives the flashing pattern correctly and independently of fixture intensity steps.

Photometric Intensity Check
Annual

Verify crossbar and light bar intensity across all selectable steps against ICAO / FAA thresholds using a calibrated photometer.

Series Circuit & CCR Continuity Check
Semi-annual

Confirm the series-circuit loop feeding the array and each fixture's isolating transformer are fault-free, since one open point can affect the whole approach picture.

Access Track & Terrain Check
Annual

Inspect approach terrain and access tracks for erosion, vegetation growth, or standing water that could affect structure stability or crew access.

Cable & Connector Inspection
Annual

Examine cable runs and connectors between the CCR feed and each fixture for corrosion or loose crimps, a common source of intermittent faults over long approach runs.

Obstruction Lighting Coordination Check
Annual

Confirm any co-located obstruction lighting on masts remains compliant and doesn't interfere with the approach lighting's intended visual guidance.

Field Notes

Common Field Issues

Structural / Frangibility Damage

Approach lighting structures are exposed to wind, terrain conditions and occasional impact; frangible-mast integrity needs periodic inspection alongside the electrical system.

Cable Runs Over Difficult Terrain

Approach areas often run over uneven or waterlogged ground, making cable protection and drainage a bigger factor here than in runway or taxiway circuits.

Sequenced Flashing System Faults

The separate control system for sequenced flashing lights adds another layer that can fail independently of the underlying series circuit, complicating fault isolation.

Access and Maintenance Difficulty

Approach lighting positions are often the least accessible on the airfield, making routine maintenance and fault response logistically harder than for runway or taxiway fixtures.

Field Notes

Troubleshooting Guide

Frangible Mast Found Compromised on Inspection
Likely Cause
Wind loading, terrain settlement, or an unreported minor impact has stressed the frangible mast structure.
Diagnostic Steps
Inspect mast couplings and base for cracking, corrosion, or misalignment during scheduled structural checks.
Corrective Action
Replace the affected coupling or mast section per the manufacturer's schedule, and confirm breakaway performance is not compromised.
Cable Fault on a Run Through Waterlogged Ground
Likely Cause
Poor drainage or inadequate cable protection over uneven or waterlogged approach terrain has allowed water ingress or mechanical damage to the cable.
Diagnostic Steps
Megger the affected run to isolate the fault; inspect exposed sections for signs of water pooling or crush damage.
Corrective Action
Repair or replace the damaged section with properly protected cable, and improve drainage or bedding at the fault location.
Sequenced Flashing Lights Out of Step or Dark
Likely Cause
A fault in the separate sequenced-flashing control system (flasher control unit, power supply, or sync module) rather than the underlying series circuit.
Diagnostic Steps
Check the series circuit and CCR status first to rule out the base lighting circuit, then test the flasher control/power/sync chain independently.
Corrective Action
Isolate and repair the faulted flasher component; re-verify the sequence timing once the base circuit is confirmed healthy.
Delayed Fault Response at Approach Positions
Likely Cause
Approach lighting fixtures are in the airfield's least accessible locations, slowing routine maintenance and fault response.
Diagnostic Steps
Review access routes and any recent access restrictions (terrain, water, security) for the affected position.
Corrective Action
Coordinate maintenance access in advance of known difficult-terrain visits, and consider all-terrain access equipment or scheduled combined visits to reduce repeat trips.
Reliability

Failure Modes & Root Causes

Structural / Frangible Mast Damage
High Severity
Root Cause
Wind loading, vehicle contact, or corrosion weakening the elevated mast structure that carries the light bar above rough terrain.
Effect
The frangible mast is found compromised on inspection, or fails outright, removing an entire light bar from the approach lighting pattern.
Detection Method
Structural and frangible mast inspection as part of scheduled maintenance, checking for corrosion, cracking, or coupling wear.
Cable Fault Over Difficult Terrain
High Severity
Root Cause
Cable routed through waterlogged or unstable ground beyond the aerodrome boundary, where standard duct protection may not extend.
Effect
A cable fault develops on a run through waterlogged ground, and can be slow to trace given the terrain the cable passes through.
Detection Method
Cable and connector inspection combined with insulation resistance testing, focused on sections known to cross difficult terrain.
Sequenced Flashing System Fault
Medium Severity
Root Cause
A sequencer or trigger-cable fault along the approach lighting's flashing system, consistent with faults seen in standalone sequenced flashing installations.
Effect
Sequenced flashing lights run out of step or go dark, weakening the moving-light cue meant to draw a pilot's eye down the approach.
Detection Method
Sequenced flashing system test, checking the flash pattern against specified timing.
LED Module / Isolating Transformer Failure
High Severity
Root Cause
Solder-joint fatigue, moisture ingress, or ordinary end-of-life degradation in the series-circuit fixtures making up the light bars.
Effect
Individual fixtures within a light bar go dark while the rest of the loop continues to operate normally.
Detection Method
Series circuit and CCR continuity check, and photometric intensity testing across the affected light bar.
CCR Regulation Fault
High Severity
Root Cause
Internal component failure or a load mismatch in the CCR feeding the approach lighting series circuit.
Effect
Incorrect brightness step or failure to hold regulated current across the loop, affecting every fixture on that circuit.
Detection Method
CCR brightness step response check and output current verification.
Access and Maintenance Difficulty
Medium Severity
Root Cause
Approach lighting positioned beyond the aerodrome boundary, often across terrain that limits vehicle access for routine maintenance.
Effect
Delayed fault response at approach positions, since reaching the affected fixture takes longer than for lighting within the airfield perimeter.
Detection Method
Access track and terrain check as part of scheduled maintenance, confirming the route to each position remains passable.
Precautions

Safety & Operational Notes

Series Circuit Isolation
Electrical Safety

Approach lighting light bars run on a constant-current series circuit that can carry several kV across the loop. De-energise and lock out the CCR, then verify zero energy at the fixture before opening a base can or handling cable connectors.

Approach Path Work Coordination
Operational

Any work on the approach lighting system requires ATC coordination and a NOTAM, and personnel and vehicles working under the approach path must stay clear of it while aircraft are landing or departing, since this equipment sits directly beneath low-altitude aircraft on final approach.

Elevated Mast Work
Personnel Safety

Use fall protection and follow the site's work-at-height procedure when servicing a light bar mounted on an elevated frangible mast, and inspect the mast structure for corrosion or cracking before climbing or loading it.

Frangibility Not to Be Defeated
Mechanical

Never substitute a frangible coupling or mast fitting with a rigid one, and restore any temporary bracing used during elevated work to its original frangible configuration before returning the mast to service.

Remote Site & Terrain Access
Personnel Safety

Plan for the difficult access and limited vehicle routes typical of positions beyond the aerodrome boundary; carry communication equipment, follow lone-worker procedures where applicable, and account for waterlogged or unstable ground when routing personnel and equipment to the site.

FOD Control at Every Position
Operational

Account for all tools, fasteners, and gaskets at each fixture and base can worked on, and secure or remove loose material before leaving a position, since approach lighting sites can be harder to revisit quickly if debris is found later.

Insulation Test Before Re-Energisation
Electrical Safety

After any cable, connector, or transformer work, megger test the affected series loop before restoring power, particularly on runs crossing waterlogged or unstable ground where a residual fault is more likely.

Restore to Compliant State
Compliance

Do not leave a light bar out of tolerance, at reduced intensity, or with a fault in the sequenced flashing pattern after maintenance; verify conformance across the affected bar before closing out the work and cancelling the associated NOTAM.

Field Insight

Engineering & Expert Notes

Sequenced Flasher Drift Is Easy to Miss Bar-by-Bar
Verification

A single flasher unit running slightly out of sequence timing can still look correct when checked in isolation; the "running rabbit" effect that pilots actually rely on only reveals a timing fault when the full sequence is observed end to end, so verify sequence timing across the whole array, not one light bar at a time.

Waterlogged Ground Degrades Foundations Before Cables
Civil

On approach lighting sited over soft or seasonally waterlogged terrain, foundation settlement at individual mast positions tends to show up before cable insulation faults do; a light bar that's drifted slightly out of its aiming tolerance is often a foundation or mast-lean issue rather than an optical or electrical one.

Voltage Drop Compounds Over Long Feeder Runs
Electrical

Approach lighting positions furthest from the CCR or feeder point can run measurably dimmer than nearer fixtures even when every unit tests individually within spec, simply from accumulated voltage drop across a long series run; check output at the far end of the array specifically rather than relying on a spot check near the threshold.

Frangible Mast Fatigue Accumulates From Wind, Not Just Impact
Mechanical

Elevated frangible masts flex continuously under normal wind loading over years of service, which can fatigue the frangible coupling's shear characteristics well before any impact event; include torque/shear verification in the overhaul cycle for masts at exposed, high-wind sites rather than treating frangibility as a one-time install check.

Access Difficulty Should Drive Inspection Frequency
Maintenance

Positions with the hardest vehicle access, often the furthest from the threshold, are also the ones most likely to get skipped or rushed on a routine walk-down; weight inspection planning toward these remote positions specifically, since a fault there is both more likely to go unnoticed and slower to fix once found.

Trend Insulation Readings on Remote Runs
Troubleshooting

Cable runs crossing unstable or waterlogged ground develop insulation faults gradually rather than suddenly; logging megger readings over successive maintenance cycles on these specific runs catches a developing fault months before it takes the array down.

Quick Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Short answers about approach lighting systems: layout, categories, structures, standards and maintenance.

Q1What is approach lighting?

Approach lighting extends outward from the runway threshold along the extended centreline. It gives pilots a visual bridge between the end of an instrument approach and the point where the runway environment becomes visible.

Q2What are the components of an approach lighting system?

Approach light bars along the extended centreline, crossbars at set distances from the threshold, centreline lighting, and on higher-category systems sequenced flashing lights.

Q3How long is an approach lighting system?

It depends on the approach category. The page gives an ICAO simple system centreline of at least 420 m from the threshold (900 m preferred), with longer and more complex layouts for precision approach CAT I and CAT II/III systems.

Q4What do sequenced flashing lights do?

They flash in sequence toward the runway threshold, strengthening the visual cue in marginal visibility. The page notes they are not exclusive to one category and can be fitted to CAT I and non-precision systems as well.

Q5How are approach lights mounted?

On elevated structures or frangible masts in the approach area, often over difficult or unprepared terrain. Each fixture is still fed through the series circuit.

Q6Which standards apply to approach lighting?

The main references are ICAO Annex 14, FAA AC 150/5340-30, IS 7785 Part 1 for India and ICAO Doc 9157 Part 4.

Q7How often should approach lighting be maintained?

Typically annual structural and frangible mast inspections, and semi-annual light bar alignment checks and sequenced flashing system tests where fitted.

Q8What are the common problems with approach lighting?

Structural or frangibility damage from wind and terrain, cable runs over uneven or waterlogged ground, faults in the separate sequenced flashing control system, and difficult access to many approach lighting positions.

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