Where do runway edge lights sit across the runway?
Two rows, level with the runway edge or just outside it, the same distance either side of the centreline.
Runway edge lights sit along the edges of the declared runway, or outside them by not more than 3 m (ICAO Annex 14). The two rows are equidistant from the centreline, so the offset is the same on both sides.
Opposite lights sit on lines at right angles to the runway axis. Where the declared runway is wider than 60 m, the distance between the rows is set by considering the nature of operations, the light distribution and the other visual aids on the runway.
Uniform intervals, not more than 60 m or 100 m. See Entry 32.
Rows at the edge or up to 3 m outside, equal either side of the centreline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1What is lateral spacing of runway edge lights?
It is the distance across the runway between the two rows of edge lights, which is set by where each row sits relative to the runway edge and the centreline. The rows are equidistant from the centreline.
Q2How far outside the runway edge can the lights be?
ICAO Annex 14 Volume I places the lights along the edges of the area declared for use as runway, or outside those edges at a distance of not more than 3 m. The FAA uses a comparable limit of about 10 ft (3 m); check the edition in force.
Q3What is row offset?
It is the distance from the runway edge to the light row, measured outward. The offset should be the same on both sides so the two rows stay symmetrical about the centreline.
Q4What if the runway is wider than 60 m?
Annex 14 says the distance between the rows is then determined by considering the nature of operations, the light distribution of the edge lights and the other visual aids serving the runway. It is a design decision, not a fixed figure.
Q5Should lights on opposite sides line up?
Yes. Opposite lights sit on a line at right angles to the runway axis, so the pair reads as a clean row of gates down the runway. Staggered rows are not the arrangement.
Q6Where is runway light lateral spacing defined?
In ICAO Annex 14 Volume I (Chapter 5, runway edge lights) and the Aerodrome Design Manual Part 4, and for FAA-regulated airports in FAA AC 150/5340-30 and the project specification. Always confirm against the current edition.
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