Pilot controlled lighting switched on for GA pilots

Licensed aerodromes will be free to introduce pilot controlled lighting systems, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced. Until now, pilot controlled lighting at licensed aerodromes was reserved solely for the emergency services. Unlicensed aerodromes have been using pilot controlled lighting technology for a number of years.

Details of the CAA’s policy change will be made available during this weekend’s LAA Rally at Sywell Aerodrome (29-31 Aug). The change follows a consultation with the aviation community. Aerodromes which already have pilot controlled lighting technology installed for the emergency services can now extend its use to all pilots, once an appropriate method of operation has been agreed between the aerodrome and pilot users.

Aerodromes yet to install the technology will need to submit a proposal to the CAA. The regulator has published details of the criteria aerodromes should follow in an Information Notice IN 2014-143. Details of the consultation, including comment responses are available at www.caa.co.uk/consultations

The CAA’s newly formed GA Unit will be on hand at this year’s LAA Rally to brief the general aviation community on the progress of its deregulation agenda, arising out of last year’s Government sponsored Red Tape Challenge. Actions well underway include a complete review of the Air Navigation Order and the establishment of better links with general aviation representatives. Work coming down the track includes the potential reduction in regulations and requirements for many areas of GA, including operators of historic aircraft and air show organisers, and also the development of an ICAO-compliant Certificate of Airworthiness for gyroplanes.