Overview

The AES-AL-X-X-X omni-directional is a low intensity, solar-powered portable airfield light designed for taxiway edge marking and unserviceable area delineation. It provides 360-degree light output for maximum visibility from all directions, and it operates entirely off-grid with an integrated solar panel and built-in lithium battery.

The unit is available in two colour configurations: blue for taxiway edge applications and red for marking unserviceable areas on the airfield. Both configurations are fully compliant with ICAO Annex 14 Vol. I, EASA CS-ADR-DSN, FAA AC 150/5345-46F, IEC TS 61827, and Part 139 (Aerodromes) Manual of Standards.

Design and Construction

The light body is made from lightweight aluminium alloy with good thermal dissipation, and all external hardware is designed for long-term outdoor use. The solar panels are integrated directly into the body of the unit, which keeps the overall footprint small and eliminates the risk of loose external panels becoming Foreign Object Debris on operational surfaces.

One detail that sets this model apart is its low height profile. The unit is specifically designed to preserve clearance for propellers and engine pods of jet aircraft, making it safe for placement in areas where taller fittings could create a hazard. The compact dimensions (Ø234 x 254 mm) and built-in carry handle make it easy to pick up, reposition, and transport by hand.

The fitting carries IP66 ingress protection, is rated for wind resistance up to 240 km/h, and operates across a temperature range of -40°C to +55°C. Built-in surge protection and a shielded, sealed power supply ensure reliable performance even in harsh environments.

Battery and Autonomy

This is where the omni-directional model really stands out. The 3.6V/13AH lithium battery delivers exceptional autonomy figures, particularly at lower intensity settings. At level 1 (the lowest brightness), the unit can run continuously for up to 480 hours on a single charge. At level 2 it delivers around 180 hours, and at the highest setting it still provides over 57 hours of operation.

Those numbers make this unit particularly well suited for long-duration deployments where access for recharging may be limited, such as remote airfields, construction zones within airport movement areas, or semi-permanent taxiway edge installations at smaller aerodromes.

A built-in LED indicator shows remaining battery level in real time, so operators always know how much autonomy is left. Charging is handled through the integrated solar panel under normal conditions, with optional AC/DC charging ports available for faster turnaround when needed. The optional charger storage box (AES-CSB) can charge up to six units simultaneously and doubles as a rugged transport case with wheels and handles.

Optical Performance

The unit uses high efficiency LED technology with a source life exceeding 100,000 hours and minimal light decay over time. The omni-directional optical system distributes light evenly across the full 360-degree horizontal plane, ensuring consistent visibility from any direction.

Photometric performance meets and exceeds ICAO Section 5.3.18.7-8 requirements at all three intensity levels. The blue taxiway edge configuration produces 0.9 cd at level 1 (ICAO requires 0.2 cd), 2.8 cd at level 2 (requires 0.6 cd), and 9.4 cd at level 3 (requires 2 cd). The red unserviceable area configuration delivers 2 cd at level 1 (requires 1 cd), 6.2 cd at level 2 (requires 3 cd), and 20.6 cd at level 3 (requires 10 cd).

Remote Control and Operation

An optional wireless remote controller (AES-RC) provides full operational flexibility from distances of up to 5 km. A single controller can manage multiple lights organised into up to five independent groups, with three-level dimming and switching between steady burning and flashing modes (30 fpm).

For military and specialised applications, the unit supports an optional NVG (Night Vision Goggle) compatible mode with infrared (IR) lighting, enabling covert airfield operations where visible light must be minimised.

Mounting and Deployment

The AES-AL-X-X-X omni-directional is designed for fast deployment with minimal setup. The base plate includes four M14 bolt holes (Ø200 mm pattern) for permanent or semi-permanent installation, and an optional frangible mounting support (AES-AL-P-CP) is available.

For temporary applications such as construction works, runway closures, or marking of unserviceable areas, the unit can simply be placed on any flat surface and activated. Its lightweight construction and integrated carry handle make repositioning quick and straightforward, which is exactly what maintenance teams need when conditions on the airfield change at short notice.

Order Code Structure

AES-AL-X-X-X

First position (charging): S = Solar, C = Charger, S/C = Both. Second position (application): RE = Taxiway Edge, UA = Unserviceable Area. Third position (colour): B = Blue, R = Red.