Plain English Meaning

Two types of runway approach lights that guide a pilot to the runway at the end of an instrument approach. Both run about 2,400 feet out from the runway and include a row of flashing strobes that 'walk' toward the runway to show the pilot where to line up. SSALR is the brighter version used at busier airports; MALSR is the more common medium-brightness version.

Full Definition

Two standard approach lighting systems installed at the approach end of an instrument runway to help the pilot transition from instrument flight to a visual landing. SSALR is a simplified, - used primarily on precision at larger airports, consisting of a of steady- lights extending 2,400 feet from the , a 1,000-foot crossbar, and a sequence of flashing (, or RAILs) along the outer portion. MALSR is a medium-intensity version of the same general layout, extending 2,400 feet from the with a 1,000-foot crossbar and RAIL strobes on the outer 1,500 feet, and is the most common on Category I runways in the . Both provide for runway , distance to the threshold, and guidance during the of an instrument approach.