Solid Red Means Hold

The latest in the FAAs efforts to prevent runway incursions goes into effect at the San Francisco (Calif.) International Airport (SFO) November 30. It takes the form of the Runway Status Lights (RWSL) program, an automated series of red lights embedded in taxiways that enter runways and in the departure end of runways themselves. The lights warn pilots of high-speed aircraft or vehicles on runways, according to the agency.

Friday, November 18, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The FAA is implementing the Runway Status Lights (RWSL) program, an automated system of red lights embedded in taxiways and runways, to warn pilots of unsafe runway conditions and prevent incursions, serving as a supplement to, but not a replacement for, ATC clearance.
The FAA's regulatory enforcement policy prioritizes a "Compliance Action" approach for unintentional deviations, focusing on problem-solving, root-cause analysis, and corrective training, while reserving traditional enforcement for intentional or reckless misconduct.

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The latest in the FAA’s efforts to prevent runway incursions goes into effect at the San Francisco (Calif.) International Airport (SFO) November 30. It takes the form of the Runway Status Lights (RWSL) program, an automated series of red lights embedded in taxiways that enter runways and in the departure end of runways themselves. The lights “warn pilots of high-speed aircraft or vehicles on runways,” according to the agency.

Since they are automated and independent of air traffic control, they are not a substitute for a clearance to enter or cross a runway. Instead, they’re one more tool pilots and controllers can use to minimize the risk of runway incursions. They’re either off or on: If they’re on, stop and advise ATC you are “holding for red lights.” Do not proceed beyond the lights until they’re off and you have an appropriate clearance.