Definition
Configurations of high-intensity lights extending outward from the approach end of a runway, designed to provide visual guidance to pilots transitioning from instrument flight to visual references during the final stage of an approach to landing. Approach lighting systems vary in length, configuration, and intensity depending on the type of approach the runway supports, with more elaborate systems installed on runways serving lower instrument approach minimums.
Plain English
A pattern of bright lights stretching out from the start of the runway, leading the pilot's eye to the runway in poor visibility or at night. The lights help the pilot find the runway and line up with it as they break out of cloud or low visibility on final approach.
Context Anchor
Seen on airport sketches, airport diagrams, and instrument approach information for runways that have lighting aids installed before the landing end.
Derivation
Approach comes from an old French word meaning “to come near.” In aviation, it means the part of flight where the airplane is coming near the runway to land. That helps explain why these lights are placed before the runway, where the pilot is approaching it.
Why Pilots Care
Provides critical visual cues for runway identification and alignment in low-visibility conditions, reducing the risk of runway incursions or controlled flight into terrain.
Grounding Statement
On a dark or hazy night, the approach lights may appear before the runway itself and lead your eyes toward the runway end.
Intuition Check
Do not read “approach lighting systems” as just any lights you see while approaching an airport. These are specific, arranged lights installed before the runway to guide the final part of landing.
Example Sentence 1
After breaking out of the clouds at minimums, the pilot identified the approach lighting system and continued the descent toward the runway.
Example Sentence 2
Airport diagrams indicate which runways are equipped with approach lighting systems to help pilots plan their arrival.