Advances in Solar Airfield Lighting

Topics The evolution of solar LED technology as it applies to airfield lighting: a brief history Vast array of present-day solar airfield lighting products: edge/threshold/taxi lights, PAPIs, MALSR, REILs, etc. Case Studies: General Aviation, Commercial Aviation, Defense Markets The FAA and perception of solar airfield lighting applications

Technology Review Light Emitting Diodes (LED) Solar Energy Solar lights use LED technology as their light source The main advantage of LEDs is their efficiency Solar Energy Solar cells collect this energy and convert it into useable electricity Energy Storage Solar power is an intermittent energy source therefore energy storage is important Rechargeable batteries are used to store energy The energy feeding the battery needs to be managed The energy output of the battery needs to be managed as well.

Technology Review FAA Standards – AC150/5345-46 Perception Photometrics Chromaticity Environmental Considerations Perception Solar Lighting won’t work here VS. VS.

Technology Review – What is Possible – Edge Lights Taxi Lights – L861T Runway Edge (MIRL)

Technology Review – What is Possible – Approach Lights REIL 2 & 4 Box PAPI PAPIs, 2 and 4 box, REILs, MALSR w/sequenced flashers Medium Approach Light System w/ Runway Alignment Solar Power Supply

Technology Review – What is Possible - Other Wind Cones Signs EGRLs PALC

Who Uses - Military Military – US, NATO and others Rugged, Dependable, Rapidly Deployed Federal & State Government Disaster Preparedness Expeditionary forces, FEMA, State DOT Aviation for storm recovery, fire fighting,

Who Uses – Major Airports Maintenance, Temporary Applications Obstruction, Fence Line, Safety areas Repavement projects, displaced threshold, barricades, fence line, building marking

Who Uses – General Aviation Permanent Installations

FAA Position Currently conducting a viability study Developing a requirements standard Looking into possible test airports Most likely will allow for solar taxi lights first Amendment to AC 150/5345-46 which will then allow the lights to be bought using AIP funds.

Questions