Definition
A computer-based system installed at certain airports that monitors the status of runway lighting and provides automatic alerts when a potentially unsafe condition is detected, such as an aircraft taking off or landing on a runway while another aircraft or vehicle is on that runway. It is associated with systems like the Final Approach Runway Occupancy Signal (FAROS) and runway status light systems.
Plain English
An airport computer system that watches runway activity and warns pilots and controllers when something is happening on a runway that could lead to a collision.
Context Anchor
You may see this term in AIM glossary material about airport surface safety, runway conflict alerts, and controller warning systems at towered airports.
Derivation
“Logic” comes from a Greek word connected with reason or orderly thinking. In this term, it points to programmed decision rules: the system does not just display movement; it follows built-in rules to decide when that movement may become unsafe.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces the chance of runway incursions by giving controllers early, automatic warnings during ground movements, especially in low visibility or at busy airports.
Grounding Statement
Picture an airport tower display watching runway movement and giving the controller an alarm if two targets appear to be headed toward an unsafe situation.
Intuition Check
Do not read “Safety Logic System” as a general safety policy or a pilot decision-making method. In the AIM glossary, it means a specific automated warning function used with airport surface surveillance equipment.
Example Sentence 1
The tower briefed that the Safety Logic System had been triggered by a vehicle on the runway, causing the takeoff hold lights to illuminate.
Example Sentence 2
During nighttime operations the Safety Logic System provided an extra layer of protection by monitoring runway occupancy in real time.