Safety
FAA Completes Runway Warning System at 20 Airports
The Runway Status Lights alerts pilots and vehicle operators about potential runway conflicts.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of 20 major U.S. airports to have the FAA's Runway Status Lights (RWSL) system installed. This includes the Takeoff Hold Lights (THL), which illuminate when there is an aircraft in position for departure and the runway is occupied by another aircraft or vehicle and is unsafe for takeoff. (Photo: FAA)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of 20 major U.S. airports to have the FAA's Runway Status Lights (RWSL) system installed. This includes the Takeoff Hold Lights (THL), which illuminate when there is an aircraft in position for departure and the runway is occupied by another aircraft or vehicle and is unsafe for takeoff. (Photo: FAA)

The FAA’s Runway Status Lights (RWSL) system is now operational at all 20 major U.S. airports slated to have the new technology. According to the agency, this is the first system designed to automatically provide a direct warning to pilots and vehicle operators about potential runway conflicts.