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Lighting Systems Group - MALSR

Approach Light Systems (ALS) provide the basic means to transition from instrument flight to visual flight for landing. Operational requirements dictate the sophistication and configuration of the approach light system for a particular runway. The MALSR (Medium Intensity Approach Lighting
System With Runway Alignment Indicator Lights) is a medium approach intensity lighting system (ALS) installed in airport runway approach zones along the extended centerline of the runway. The MALSR, consisting of a combination of threshold lamps, steady burning light bars and flashers, provides visual information to pilots on runway alignment, height perception, role guidance, and horizontal references for Category I Precision Approaches.

Typical Ground Installation

A typical MALSR uses 18 lamps (PAR 56) along the runway threshold spaced 10’ apart, 9 light bars with 5 lights (PAR 38) separated every 200’ and 5 sequenced flashers also separated every 200’ over a distance of 2,400’ from the runway threshold. At the 1,000’ point there are three light bars (15 lamps) for added visual reference for the pilot on final approach. Sequenced flashing lights provide added visual guidance down the runway centerline path. Planned approach visibility is at least 1,800’ to .5 miles, with a decision height of 200’. MALSR primarily assists by providing visual guidance in CAT I precision approaches.

FAA Technical Lead in ATO:
Donald Lampkins - (202) 267-7332

Current Status: There are approximately 900 MALSR in the NAS. Principal manufactures include Multi Electric (313), AVW (106), Godfrey (105), DME (76), Sepco (42), GTE (35), and others.