In the absence of a standardized layout, particularly concerning portable airfield lighting, various Air Force Bases have devised their methods. This practice, aside from potentially posing hazards to pilots landing on unfamiliar airfields, has resulted in a perplexing situation for both aircraft and aircrew on occasion. Additionally, it presents a challenge for Air Traffic Control (ATC) staff to familiarize themselves with different layouts at various bases. Therefore, there is an intention to standardize airfield lighting by procedures outlined in the BAF (Base Airfield) for the information and guidance of all concerned.

Marshalling Point

A marshaling point is designated with a triangle, with the base indicated by two amber marker lights and the apex by one blue marker light.

Illuminated Landing “T”

Normally, the landing “T” is not illuminated for night flying. However, in the event of a runway obstruction during night operations, the lighted landing “T” is placed on the centerline to demarcate the landing area’s limit. Additionally, when a runway change occurs, the lighted “T” is positioned adjacent to a mobile unit to indicate the new landing direction to pilots. It consists of nine gooseneck flares: five in line and four positioned at right angles to them, equally spaced two feet apart.

Aerodrome Identification Beacon (PUNDIT)

General

• Aerodrome identification beacons are installed at all airfields committed to night flying within their boundaries.

Operation

• Aerodrome identification beacons are illuminated under the following conditions:

• During local night flying or upon request, even if no night flying is scheduled. Thus, the activation of an identification beacon does not necessarily indicate that the airfield is open for flying.

• In poor visibility during the day, an identification beacon emitting steady light aids pilots in identifying the runway’s touchdown end in use. The beacon is positioned 150 feet from the edge of the downwind end of the runway, as close as possible to the maneuvering area boundary.

Signal

• Aerodrome identification beacons typically flash red and are visible within a 360-degree azimuth and up to 800 feet vertically. In good visibility, they can be seen from a distance of up to 30 miles.

Serviceability

• Aerodrome identification beacons are usually mobile for easy deployment and can operate on main electric power or a self-contained petrol/electric generator. Any unserviceability of an aerodrome identification beacon is subject to NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) action.

Marking of Obstructions

All airfield lighting obstruction lights within the aerodrome circuit, marking both temporary and permanent obstructions in the maneuvering areas, are to be switched on before night flying commences. This includes caravan huts, barrier poles, and aircraft, all marked with red obstruction light

Storage of Night Flying Equipment

Night flying equipment, due to its flammable nature, should be stored in a secure building away from other structures, with no wooden interior. Proper fire-fighting equipment should be provided, and the storage area should be clearly marked and distinguished.

Precautions in Handling

Night-flying equipment should be handled with extreme caution, following instructions outlined in the ATC Manual.

Obstruction Lights

Air Navigation Obstruction Lights

General

• Air navigation obstructions are illuminated with red two-lamp fittings.

Operation

• All air navigation obstruction lights are to be displayed from dusk to dawn and in poor visibility during the daytime.

Signal

• The layout of air navigation obstruction lighting is arranged to indicate the overall dimensions and highest point of the obstruction from any direction. All lights are visible from directly above to ground level.

Airfield Lighting Obstruction

Obstruction airfield lighting can be categorized as permanent or temporary. While air traffic control services are not responsible for permanent obstruction design, spacing, or maintenance, they must ensure that permanent obstruction lighting is activated when necessary for visual checks and report any observed unserviceability.

Lighting of Permanent Obstructions

Permanent airfield obstructions are illuminated at night and, if deemed necessary, during poor visibility in daylight. Lighting typically comprises red two-lamp fittings, with the layout determined by the obstruction’s projected length parallel to the nearest landing strip’s edge.

Layout of Airfield Obstruction Lights

The layout varies based on the obstruction’s dimensions, with additional lights added for larger obstructions or those exceeding certain heights.

Lighting of Temporary Obstructions

Temporary airfield and approach obstructions are marked with red marker lamps to indicate their full dimensions horizontally and vertically.

High-Intensity Approach and Runway Lighting

High-intensity approach lights, including strobe sequences in RAF installations, and high-intensity runway lights provide directional guidance and aid in early visual acquisition of the runway during poor visibility and adverse weather conditions.

Location and Function

High-intensity approach lights comprise unidirectional lights along the extended runway centerline, with crossbars of lights at regular intervals.

Operation

Initial intensity settings vary based on visibility conditions, with adjustments made upon pilot request.

Sequence of Strobe Lighting

Strobe lighting operates at a fixed intensity during both day and night in conditions of heavy rain, fog, smoke, dense haze, or upon pilot request.

Aerodrome Beacons

Aerodrome beacons are activated at night and during reduced visibility by day, except when the density of arriving aircraft does not warrant continuous display. When not continuously displayed, the beacon is turned on 20 minutes before the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of an arriving aircraft and remains on until the aircraft is established in the circuit.

Control of Airfield and Approach Lighting

This section pertains solely to the operation of airfield and approach lighting, with guidelines for activation and duration of display during departures, arrivals, and periods of darkness or poor visibility.