Modernizing Taxiway and Apron Lighting with LED Technology
As part of its ongoing infrastructure modernization program, Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF) has undertaken a comprehensive upgrade of its airfield ground lighting systems. The objective was clear: replace obsolete incandescent lighting with modern LED solutions, improving energy efficiency, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance.
AES Airport Solutions was selected to supply the new lighting equipment, contributing to a safer, more sustainable, and future-ready airfield environment.
Project Overview
- Airport: Lamezia Terme International Airport (Italy)
- Scope: Technological upgrade of taxiway and apron edge lighting and guidance signage
- Supplied equipment:
- 303 units of EOL-TE-LED Elevated Taxiway and Apron Edge Lights
- 31 units of TGSL-H illuminated guidance sign panels
- Application areas: Taxiways, connectors and apron areas
- Regulatory framework: ICAO Annex 14, EASA CS-ADR-DSN, ENAC regulations
This project forms part of a wider plan to align the airport’s lighting infrastructure with current European aviation standards while reducing long-term energy and maintenance costs.
The Challenge: Replacing Aging Incandescent Systems
Prior to the intervention, large sections of the taxiway and apron lighting at Lamezia Terme Airport were still equipped with halogen and incandescent fixtures. While functional, these systems presented several challenges:
- Higher energy consumption
- Increased maintenance frequency
- Non-uniform luminance across movement areas
- Partial non-compliance with updated EASA requirements
The airport required a solution capable of ensuring photometric uniformity, seamless integration with existing constant current circuits, and long-term operational reliability—without disrupting daily airport operations.
AES Solution: LED Technology for Airside Operations
To meet these requirements, AES Airport Solutions supplied its EOL-TE-LED Elevated Taxiway and Apron Edge Lights, specifically designed for demanding airside environments.
EOL-TE-LED Elevated Taxiway and Apron Edge Lights
The EOL-TE-LED is engineered to replace legacy incandescent fixtures while maintaining full compatibility with existing infrastructure.
Key benefits include:
- Full compliance with ICAO Annex 14 and EASA CS-ADR-DSN.M.720
- High-efficiency LED technology ensuring consistent luminance and visibility
- Reduced power consumption and lower thermal stress
- Long service life, significantly minimizing maintenance interventions
- Robust mechanical design suitable for harsh airfield conditions
A total of 303 LED edge lights were supplied to modernize taxiways, connectors, and apron areas, improving both visual guidance and overall airfield safety.
Click to Download the Data Sheet of EOL-TE-LED
Illuminated Guidance: TGSL-H Sign Panels
In addition to edge lighting, AES delivered 31 TGSL-H illuminated sign panels, supporting the renewal of aeronautical guidance signage within the movement area.
These panels were supplied to ensure:
- Clear and legible guidance for pilots during ground operations
- Compliance with updated EASA signage standards
- Improved visibility under all operational conditions, day and night
The integration of upgraded signage complements the new LED lighting system, contributing to a more intuitive and safer airfield layout.
Click to Download the Data Sheet of TGSL-H
Operational and Environmental Impact
The transition to LED technology brings measurable advantages for the airport operator:
- Energy efficiency: Significant reduction in power consumption compared to incandescent systems
- Lower maintenance costs: Extended lifespan of LED fixtures reduces replacement frequency
- Operational continuity: Compatibility with existing constant current regulators avoids major electrical modifications
- Sustainability: Reduced environmental footprint aligned with European sustainability objectives
This airfield lighting upgrade supports Lamezia Terme Airport’s commitment to modern, efficient, and sustainable airside operations.
A Collaborative Approach to Airfield Modernization
Every component supplied by AES for this project was manufactured and delivered in strict accordance with the technical specifications defined by the airport and approved by the relevant aviation authorities. The solution was tailored to meet real operational needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach.
This project reinforces AES Airport Solutions’ role as a trusted partner for airports seeking reliable LED airfield lighting solutions that combine compliance, performance, and long-term value.
BEFORE
AFTER
Looking Ahead
The successful supply of LED taxiway lights and illuminated signs at Lamezia Terme International Airport represents another step forward in AES’s commitment to supporting airports across Europe with innovative, efficient, and regulation-ready airfield lighting systems.
Frequently Asked Questions – Lamezia Airport Lighting Upgrade
What type of airfield lighting was supplied to Lamezia Airport?
AES supplied 303 units of EOL-TE-LED elevated taxiway and apron edge lights, along with 31 TGSL-H illuminated guidance sign panels, replacing the airport’s previous incandescent systems.
Why did Lamezia Airport choose LED airfield lighting?
LED technology significantly reduces energy consumption, lowers maintenance costs, and improves operational reliability while ensuring full compliance with ICAO and EASA standards.
Are the installed lights compliant with international aviation standards?
Yes. All supplied equipment fully complies with ICAO Annex 14 and EASA requirements for civil airports.
Can AES support large-scale airport lighting renovation projects?
Absolutely. AES specializes in supplying, supporting, and delivering large airfield lighting projects across Europe, working closely with airports and authorities.