Definition
A configuration of approach lights extending a shorter distance from the runway threshold than a standard approach lighting system, providing visual guidance to pilots transitioning from instrument flight to visual references during the final segment of an approach. SALS is typically installed at runways where a full-length system is not practical, and consists of a centerline of steady-burning lights with a crossbar to indicate the approach path to the runway.
Plain English
A line of lights leading up to the runway that helps pilots see where the runway is when they break out of cloud or low visibility on final approach. It is shorter than the full version found at larger airports.
Context Anchor
Seen in airport lighting descriptions, instrument approach information, and airport notices about lighting outages.
Why Pilots Care
Provides essential visual reference for runway alignment when weather reduces visibility, supporting safer landings at airports without longer lighting systems.
Grounding Statement
Picture a row of lights before the runway that points your eyes toward the runway when the runway itself is still hard to see.
Intuition Check
“Short” does not mean temporary or unimportant here. It means the lighting layout is physically shorter than a full approach lighting system.
Example Sentence 1
The approach chart noted that the runway was equipped with a SALS rather than a full ALSF, so the pilot expected to see the lights only in the last portion of the final approach.
Example Sentence 2
Many smaller airports install SALS instead of a full approach lighting system when traffic volume does not justify the longer configuration.