Runway status lights cut incursion threat | Aviation International News

Runway status lights cut incursion threat

A system of in-pavement stoplights, designed to prevent runway incursions, has received endorsement from Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin

By AIN Staff • AIN Staff

February 5, 2008

A system of in-pavement stoplights, designed to prevent runway incursions, has received endorsement from Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin Scovel. Known as runway status lights (RWSL), the system has been under test at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) since 2003 and at San Diego International Airport since 2005.

The technology uses automated surveillance-driven lights that work as an independent, direct warning system to alert pilots of aircraft departing or crossing a runway that it is already occupied and active. The lights are installed at runway/taxiway intersections and at departure points along the runways.

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