Definition
A runway approach lighting system installed at the threshold end of an instrument runway, consisting of a shortened configuration of steady-burning white lights extending outward from the runway, supplemented by a series of high-intensity sequenced flashing lights (often called the 'rabbit') that fire in rapid succession from the outer end of the system toward the runway threshold. The flashing lights provide a strong visual cue of the runway's location and alignment during instrument approaches in reduced visibility.
Plain English
A row of lights leading up to the runway that helps a pilot find and line up with the runway at night or in poor visibility. It uses a shorter line of steady lights plus a string of fast-flashing lights that appear to race toward the runway, pointing the way in.
Context Anchor
Seen on airport lighting descriptions, instrument approach charts, and during the final part of an approach to a runway equipped with this lighting system.
Derivation
The name describes its parts. 'Simplified' means a reduced configuration compared to a full approach light system. 'Short' refers to the shorter length of the lighted area. 'Approach Light System' is the general name for runway-leading lights used during the approach. 'Sequenced Flashing Lights' describes lights that flash one after another in order, creating a moving visual effect that points toward the runway.
Why Pilots Care
Gives pilots a clear visual path to the runway threshold during night or low-visibility approaches, reducing the chance of misalignment or runway incursion.
Analogy
Think of the sequenced flashing lights like a string of arrows lighting up one after another, the way some theatre marquees or airport runway signs chase toward a destination. Your eye naturally follows the motion straight to the runway.
Grounding Statement
Picture a row of lights leading toward the runway, with some lights flashing in order to point your eyes in the right direction.
Intuition Check
“Simplified” does not mean informal or optional; it means this is a specific reduced approach-lighting configuration. “Short” does not mean the runway is short; it means the approach light system is shorter than some full-length systems.
Example Sentence 1
Breaking out of the clouds at minimums, the captain spotted the sequenced flashing lights of the SSALR and continued the approach to landing.
Example Sentence 2
At the destination airport the Simplified Short Approach Light System With Sequenced Flashing Lights activated automatically as the aircraft descended through the approach minimums.