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Approach Light Secrets

As much as we drill instrument students on the 10 items from FAR 91.175 (c) you could see to go below DA/MDA, in the real world if we see anything that might be part of the runway, we land on it. Its nearly certain that youll first see the ALS, allowing you to descend to 100 feet AGL and search for something resembling a runway.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Approach Lighting Systems (ALS) are vital for bridging the gap between instrument and visual flight, providing critical orientation, guidance, and a visual means to estimate required flight visibility for a safe landing.
  • Various ALS configurations exist (e.g., ALSF-2, MALSR, ODALS), each featuring specific components like sequenced flashing lights, roll bars, and red indicator lights that aid in aligning and preparing for touchdown.
  • Pilots should actively brief the expected ALS type for their approach, understanding its components to interpret visual cues for visibility and alignment, and communicate with ATC or use pilot-controlled lighting to optimize light intensity.
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As much as we drill instrument students on the 10 items from FAR 91.175 (c) you could see to go below DA/MDA, in the real world if we see anything that might be part of the runway, we land on it. It’s nearly certain that you’ll first see the ALS, allowing you to descend to 100 feet AGL and search for something resembling a runway.

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