Navigation lights

Modern Airfield Lighting System

The airfield lighting system is predominantly based on LED fixtures.

On the primary approach to runway 29, 194 fixtures are installed in an ALPA-ATA CAT II/III configuration, along with a 30-unit sequenced flashing light system (SFL). The system extends over a length of 900 m. On the approach to runway 11, 24 fixtures are installed in a SALS configuration. On both directions, aircraft are guided by precision approach path indicators (PAPI).

The beginning and end of the runway are marked respectively by green threshold lights with wing bars and red runway end lights. The runway centerline is defined by 186 white and red fixtures. The touchdown zone consists of 180 white fixtures, while the runway edge is marked by 92 elevated and inset white and yellow lights.

After landing, pilots are guided by yellow rapid exit taxiway indicator lights (RETIL) as well as yellow and green taxiway centerline lights. Blue elevated edge lights are installed along taxiway edges. Runway entry is protected by red stop bar lights and alternating flashing yellow runway guard lights, commonly known as wig-wags.

An essential complement to horizontal markings is vertical signage. Illuminated signs installed on the maneuvering area are divided into mandatory signs (red background with white inscriptions), indicating, among others, holding positions before the runway, and information signs (yellow or black background), supporting orientation and navigation on taxiways.

Depending on weather conditions and visibility, air traffic controllers select one of five preset light intensity levels: 1, 3, 10, 30 or 100%. This regulation is achieved using constant current regulators (CCR) supplying series circuits.

The performance of the lighting system is monitored by the ALCMS (Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System), which detects and signals failures of individual fixtures thanks to the ILCMS (Individual Lamp Control and Monitoring System).

Power reliability is ensured by two independent cable lines and two transformers operating in a standby redundancy system. In the event of a power outage, a UPS guarantees uninterrupted operation of the airfield lighting during generator startup, with full load takeover via an automatic transfer switch (ATS) in less than 15 seconds.

The airfield lighting system is powered from two transformer substations.