Plain English Meaning
The lights on and around a runway that show pilots where the runway is, where it begins, where it ends, and where its edges are, especially at night or when visibility is poor.
Full Definition
The system of lights installed on, alongside, and at the ends of a runway to define its boundaries, identify its threshold and end, and assist pilots during takeoff, landing, and taxi operations at night or in low-visibility conditions. Runway lighting includes runway edge lights, threshold lights, runway end lights, centerline lights, touchdown zone lights, and (where installed) runway end identifier lights, each with standardized colors and spacing.