Overview
The AES-AL-X-X-X is a high intensity, solar-powered portable airfield light designed for runway edge, runway end, threshold, and combined threshold/end applications. It provides full ICAO Annex 14 Vol. I and FAA AC 150/5345-46F compliant performance without any connection to the electrical grid, making it suitable for permanent off-grid installations, temporary deployments, and rapid military operations.
The unit is available in multiple colour configurations to cover all standard runway lighting functions: white/white for runway edge, white/yellow for runway edge (last 600 m and caution zones), red for runway end, green for threshold, and green/red for combined threshold/end.
Design and Construction
The light body is built from lightweight aluminium alloy with excellent thermal dissipation properties. Solar panels are integrated directly into the body rather than mounted externally, which keeps the overall footprint compact and reduces the risk of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) in operational areas. The unit features a professional, low-profile design with a carry handle for easy transport and repositioning.
All hardware is designed to withstand harsh operational environments, with IP66 ingress protection, wind resistance rated to 240 km/h, and an operating temperature range from -40°C to +55°C. Built-in surge protection and a sealed, shielded power supply ensure reliable operation under demanding conditions.
Battery and Autonomy
The AES-AL-X-X-X is equipped with a 12V/20AH lithium battery that delivers over 30 hours of continuous operation in unidirectional mode and over 20 hours in bidirectional mode on a single charge. A built-in LED indicator displays remaining battery level in real time, allowing operators to monitor autonomy without additional equipment.
Charging is handled primarily through the integrated 12V/5W solar panel, with optional AC/DC charging ports available for situations where faster recharging or indoor charging is required. The optional charger storage box (AES-CSB) can charge up to six units simultaneously and doubles as a rugged transport case.
Optical Performance
The unit uses high efficiency LED technology with a source life exceeding 100,000 hours and minimal light decay over time. An advanced optical system provides precise light distribution and intensity across all brightness levels, meeting the photometric requirements of ICAO Annex 14 Vol. I.
Three intensity levels are available (low, medium, and high), with measured intensities exceeding ICAO required values across all configurations. For example, the runway edge white/white configuration delivers 1,223 cd at low intensity, 3,669 cd at medium, and 12,232 cd at high, against ICAO minimum requirements of 1,000, 3,000, and 10,000 cd respectively.
Remote Control and Operation
An optional wireless remote controller (AES-RC) allows operators to manage multiple lights from a single handheld unit at distances of up to 5 km. The controller supports up to five independent light groups, three-level dimming, and switching between steady burning and flashing modes (30 fpm).
For military and specialised applications, the unit offers an optional NVG (Night Vision Goggle) compatible mode with infrared (IR) lighting capability, enabling covert airfield operations.
Mounting and Deployment
The AES-AL-X-X-X is designed for fast, tool-free deployment. The base plate includes four M14 reserved bolt mounting holes (Ø200 mm pattern) for permanent installation, and an optional frangible mounting support (AES-AL-P-CP) is available for applications where frangibility is required.
For temporary operations, the unit can simply be placed on any flat surface and switched on. Its compact dimensions (Ø234 x 354 mm) and lightweight construction make it easy to carry by hand, transport in bulk using the charger storage box, and redeploy as operational needs change.
Compliance
The AES-AL-X-X-X is designed and tested in accordance with ICAO Annex 14 Vol. I, IEC TS 61827, FAA AC 150/5345-46F, and Part 139 (Aerodromes) Manual of Standards.
Order Code Structure
AES-AL-X-X-X
First position (charging): S = Solar, C = Charger, S/C = Both. Second position (application): RE = Runway Edge, ED = Runway End, TH = Threshold, TAE = Threshold/End. Third position (colour): W/W = White/White, W/Y = White/Yellow, R = Red, G = Green, G/R = Green/Red.