AIM DECODED

2-2-4. LED Lighting Systems

AIM Text

Certain light-emitting diode (LED) lighting systems fall outside the combined visible and near-infrared spectrum of night vision goggles (NVGs) and thus will not be visible to a flightcrew using NVGs.

The FAA changed specifications for LED-based red obstruction lights to make them visible to pilots using certain NVG systems, however, other colors may not be visible.

It is recommended that air carriers/operators—including part 91 operators—who use NVGs incorporate procedures into manuals and/or standard operating procedures (SOPs) requiring periodic, unaided scanning when operating at low altitudes and when performing a reconnaissance of landing areas.

Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 2-2-4.

Research Notes

AIM 2-2-4 covers In-Runway Lighting — runway centerline and touchdown zone lighting (parallel to AIM 2-1-7).

RCLL (Runway Centerline Lighting): White lights along centerline. Become alternating white/red 3,000 ft from end. All red last 1,000 ft. Critical for Cat II/III operations.

TDZL (Touchdown Zone Lighting): Transverse light bars 100 ft on each side of centerline. Extend from threshold to 3,000 ft or half-runway (whichever is less).

Reference: AIM 2-2-4; AIM 2-1-7.