What are runway edge lights?
A longitudinal row of lights on each side of a runway that defines its lateral limits and provides continuous visual guidance along its length.
Runway edge lights are provided along the full length of a runway intended for use at night, and on a precision approach runway intended for use by day or night. Arranged in two parallel rows equidistant from the centreline, they define the runway's lateral limits and give pilots continuous visual guidance through approach, landing, rollout, and takeoff.
Edge lights are normally white, fixed (steady-burning) lights of variable intensity. Where a caution zone is applied they may show yellow. ICAO Annex 14 (5.3.9.7) words this as a section of 600 m, or one-third of the runway length if that is less, at the end remote from where the take-off run starts. The FAA applies the yellow zone on instrument runways over the last 2,000 ft or half the runway length, whichever is less, in the direction of use, so it is also seen on the landing roll. This is a permitted variation, not a universal rule. Where a threshold is displaced, the edge lights between the start of the runway and the displaced threshold show red in the approach direction (ICAO).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1What are runway edge lights?
A longitudinal row of lights on each side of a runway, arranged in two parallel rows equidistant from the centreline, that defines the runway's lateral limits and gives continuous visual guidance along its length.
Q2What colour are runway edge lights?
Normally white, fixed lights of variable intensity. ICAO Annex 14 (5.3.9.7) lets a section of 600 m, or one-third of the runway length if less, at the end remote from where the take-off run starts, show yellow as a caution that the runway is running out. The FAA applies a yellow caution zone on instrument runways over the last 2,000 ft or half the runway length, whichever is less, in the direction of use.
Q3Are runway edge lights elevated or inset?
Either — elevated or inset — with adjustable intensity as part of the runway lighting system.
Q4When are runway edge lights provided?
Along the full length of a runway intended for use at night, and on a precision approach runway intended for use by day or night.
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