Definition
In the context of approach lighting and runway lighting systems, 'high intensity' describes lights set to operate at their brightest output level, used to make the lights visible at greater distances or in conditions of reduced visibility. On instrument approach charts, the presence or inoperative status of high intensity lighting components can affect the minimums a pilot is authorized to use.
Plain English
The lights are turned up to their brightest setting so they can be seen from far away or through poor weather.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of runway and approach lighting, including cases where some airport lighting components are inoperative.
Derivation
“Intensity” comes from a Latin word meaning “stretched tight” or “made strong.” In aviation lighting, it points to how strong the light output is, not just whether the light looks bright to one person.
Why Pilots Care
Determines whether an approach may continue or must be discontinued when lights are inoperative or set to lower intensity.
Intuition Check
Do not read “high intensity” as just a casual description meaning “pretty bright.” In FAA lighting use, it usually points to a specific lighting category or brightness setting that is higher than medium or low intensity.
Example Sentence 1
Because the high intensity runway lights were out of service, the crew had to apply the inoperative components adjustment and use higher landing minimums.
Example Sentence 2
With the high intensity setting unavailable, the pilot elected to fly the approach using the medium intensity lights.