Airfield Lighting

Term from Airport Operations industry explained for recruiters

Airfield Lighting refers to the entire system of lights and signs that guide aircraft safely during takeoff, landing, and ground movements at airports. This includes runway lights, taxiway lights, approach lighting systems, and guidance signs. It's a critical safety system that helps pilots navigate the airport in all weather conditions, especially at night or in poor visibility. When someone mentions airfield lighting experience on their resume, they typically have worked with maintaining, installing, or managing these lighting systems at airports.

Examples in Resumes

Managed preventive maintenance program for Airfield Lighting systems across three runways

Led installation of new Airport Lighting system during runway expansion project

Supervised team of technicians maintaining Airfield Lighting and Runway Lighting systems

Conducted daily inspections of Aviation Lighting systems to ensure FAA compliance

Typical job title: "Airfield Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Airport Electrician Airfield Maintenance Technician Aviation Lighting Specialist Airport Operations Technician Airfield Systems Technician Airport Maintenance Specialist Airfield Electrician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a maintenance schedule for an airport's lighting system?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating comprehensive preventive maintenance plans, coordinating with airport operations, understanding FAA requirements, managing team schedules, and emergency response procedures.

Q: How do you handle a complete lighting system failure during night operations?

Expected Answer: Should explain emergency response protocols, backup systems, coordination with air traffic control, troubleshooting procedures, and safety measures while maintaining airport operations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What regular maintenance tasks are essential for airfield lighting systems?

Expected Answer: Should describe routine inspections, bulb replacement schedules, checking electrical connections, testing backup power systems, and maintaining documentation of all work performed.

Q: How do you ensure compliance with FAA lighting regulations?

Expected Answer: Should mention knowledge of FAA standards, regular inspection procedures, documentation requirements, and staying updated with new regulations and requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the different types of airfield lights and their purposes?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic runway lights, taxiway lights, approach lights, and explain their basic functions in guiding aircraft.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working on airfield lighting?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety protocols, proper use of safety equipment, communication with control tower, and awareness of aircraft operations.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic electrical maintenance
  • Safety procedures knowledge
  • Simple troubleshooting
  • Basic tool operation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex system maintenance
  • FAA regulation compliance
  • Emergency repairs
  • Documentation management

Senior (5+ years)

  • System design and planning
  • Team supervision
  • Project management
  • Budget management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of FAA regulations and standards
  • Lack of electrical safety awareness
  • No experience with maintenance documentation
  • Unable to work flexible hours including nights and emergencies