Senior Editor

Jerry Siebenmark

In a move aimed at avoiding a repeat of an off-runway landing, tower officials at the Aspen/Pitkin County (Colorado) Airport (ASE) plan to operate Runway 15’s lights in the daytime during the winter months. That’s according to a <a href="https://nbaa.org/wp-content/uploads/aircraft-operations/safety/in-flight-safety/runway-safety/Wrong-Surface-LTA-Signed.pdf">December 12 letter to airmen</a> from Aspen tower air traffic manager Wayne Hall, who said the action is the most immediate step officials can take following the Jan. 7, 2018, landing of a Falcon Jet on frozen sod west of and next to the airport’s primary runway.&nbsp;

 


There were no injuries or damage to the airplane. During an investigation of the landing, several people reported “visual illusions and possible confusion with the landing surface and the area adjacent to it,” Hall said, also noting an “anecdotal history” of off-runway landings at ASE.&nbsp;

 


Hall said aircrews should expect runway lights to be operated on a middle setting during daylight hours. Crews can also request adjustment of the lights by contacting the tower controller, he added. Wrong-surface landings are a top safety issue for the FAA, said NBAA’s Heidi Williams, director of air traffic services and infrastructure.

New developments at airports including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

Aspen Airport Leaves Runway Lights on During Daytime

Air traffic officials hope to avoid a repeat of a Falcon Jet off-runway landing in January 2018.

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

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News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

News and issues relating to international air transport and cargo carriers, national airlines and regional airlines, including aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

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