Notices

Down Arrow
open
Welcome Guest
FAASTeam
FAASTeam Notice
Type: General Information
Notice Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Notice Number: NOTC8483
Runway Safety Tips for Pilots & Airport Drivers
This notice expired on
Saturday, June 22, 2019

Runway Status Lights (RWSL) tell pilots and vehicle operators to stop when runways are not safe. Embedded in the pavement of runways and taxiways, the lights automatically turn red when other traffic makes it dangerous to enter, cross, or begin takeoff. The lights provide direct, immediate alerts and require no input from controllers. Runway Status Lights are operational at 20 airports across the US. Additional airports will be considered in the near future for runway safety enhancements.

Here are some tips for when you encounter RWSL:

  • When operating at airports with RWSL, keep your transponder on “ALT”.
  • Never cross over illuminated red lights.
  • Do not proceed when lights have extinguished unless you have received an ATC clearance.  RWSL verify a clearance, but do not substitute for one.
  • When holding short of a runway, stop prior to the hold short markings and associated signs.
  • When clearing a runway, taxi completely across the hold short markings, ensuring your entire aircraft has cleared the hold short line. This ensures you have exited the Runway Safety Area.
  • If you are part of a flight operation, review SAFO 11009 and SAFO 17011.

Check out the FAA RWSL Video, enhanced Airport Diagrams, and other resources here:  www.faa.gov/air_traffic/technology/rwsl

 

Fly safe!

Nick DeLotell

FAA Commercial Operations Branch

(609) 485-9500

Nicholas.DeLotell@faa.gov