Wed, Feb 27, 2008
Follows Implementation At DFW And SAN
Technology that warns pilots about
potential runway safety hazards will be installed at Los Angeles
International Airport (LAX) under a partnership between the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) and the City of Los Angeles,
following a series of highly-publicized runway incursion
incidents.
The system, called Runway Status Lights, uses a series of red
lights embedded in the pavement to warn pilots if it is unsafe to
cross over or enter a runway.
Under an agreement between the FAA and Los Angeles World
Airports (LAWA), pilots will begin testing Runway Status Lights at
LAX -- the nation’s fourth busiest airport -- early next
year. LAWA is funding the system, which costs an estimated $6
million. The FAA will install, test, evaluate and maintain the
system.
"This is another valuable tool we’re using to reduce the
risk of runway incursions," said FAA Acting Administrator Robert
Sturgell. "These lights give pilots and their passengers another
layer of safety against potential runway accidents."
Pilots approaching a runway equipped with Runway Status Lights
will see red lights illuminated if the airport’s ground
surveillance radar detects traffic on or approaching that runway.
Clearance to cross or enter a runway must be given by air traffic
control.
Pilots must verify clearance before proceeding even after the
warning lights are no longer illuminated. Runway Status Lights will
also be used by vehicle operators.
The system is in place at Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW)
and San Diego International (SAN). The FAA says the lights have
improved runway safety without reducing capacity or increasing
controller workload.
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