ATO Advanced Technology Development and Prototyping Group
Light Emitting Diodes (LED)
Runway Status Lights (RWSL) Enhancements
Description
The FAA's Field and Prototype Demonstration Team developed and tested a RWSL system at two operational airports. The Runway Status Lights (RWSL) enhancements uses incandescent lighting technology within its airfield lighting system. Data analyses from other technology evaluation projects indicated significant savings in operations and maintenance costs can be realized if light emitting diode (LED) technology is used in lieu of the current incandescent RWSL lighting fixtures. Furthermore, the system response times afforded by LED lighting products will yield improved RWSL system performance.
Purpose
The LED RWSL program is seeking to develop technical and performance requirements and identify industry sources to design, test and qualify LED-based airfield systems that conform to RWSL system specifications.
Flight Plan Goal: Increased Safety
- FAA Objective 3: Reduce the risk of runway incursions
- Performance Target: By FY 2010, limit Category A and B (most serious) runway incursions to a rate of no more than 0.450 per million operations, and maintain or improve through FY 2012.
SMP Goal: Pathway 1 – Achieve Operational Excellence
- Objective 1.3: Ensure safety and aircraft separation on the airport surface
Most Recent Accomplishments
- Gather requirements with site visit to DFW - 10/18
- Completed final draft of Market Survey - 10/25
- Participated in IES conference in Chicago and circulated draft Market Survey – 10/28
