Airport lightning for instrument approach
 

Hello everyone,

I am currently studying instrument approaches and the required lights for performing them. I have two questions and would appreciate any insights you could provide.

1. What RVR and lights are required for a visual approach?
2. What lights are required for CAT1 instrument approach?

I have reviewed the AOM on "DETERMINATION OF RVR OR VIS FOR INSTRUMENT APPROACH OPERATIONS - AIRPLANES" and the downgraded equipment table, and I understand how downgraded equipment can affect the RVR. I also came across the statement mentioning that the visual aids should include standard runway day markings, runway edge lights, threshold lights, runway end lights, and approach lights.

However, I'm still unclear on the exact minimum lights that are required to begin the approach (for example may I perform CAT1 approach if only there are runway edge lights available? etc). I understand that one of the visual references is required to descend below MDA, but I'm still unclear on the exact lighting required to commence the approach to begin with... Could someone please clarify

Thank you in advance

Regardless of approach lighting, best not to attempt an approach or landing at an airport where there is lightning! :-)

You know what would be really helpful? You sharing with us what sort of operation you are doing and what is this "AOM" you are reading. Believe it or not, that's useful information.

Jeppesen approach charts have increased RVR requirement for ”ALS out”. That means ILS approach to CAT1 DA should be possible without any ALS. For night operations minimum requirements for a runway are treshold, end and edge lightning.

No lights are required for a visual approach or a CAT I approach since either can be performed in day VMC. The requirement for any lights only kicks in at night or in reduced visibility.

The lights don't get turned on at my base airport just because a biz jet on an IFR flight plan makes a visual approach in the middle of the day.