Heliport Lighting - U.S. Park Police Demonstration

Authors: Scott A. Fontaine; Edwin D. McConkey; SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORPARLINGTON VA

Abstract:

This demonstration/evaluation of prototype heliport lighting system components was part of a larger effort to research the requirements for lighting systems to support precision approaches to heliports. Based on the success of a VFR prototype system demonstrated in conjunction with Operation Heli-STAR (DOT/ FAA/AND-97/20), it was decided to continue the demonstration/evaluation at the United States (U.S.) Park Police Heliport in Washington, D.C.. The arrangement has proven to be extremely valuable, due in large part to the cooperation and assistance of the officers, pilots, and aircrew of the U.S. Park Police Aviation Section. This reports documents the initial evaluation of a laser diode localizer, a laser diode glideslope indicator, a light pipe, cold cathode line- up and landing system, and a light bar "alignment of elements" glideslope indicator. Some insights and lessons learned regarding the use of simulation in lighting system development are also presented.

Limitations:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE