The MALSR is a medium-intensity approach lighting system (ALS) installed in airport runway approach zones along the extended centerline of the runway.
MALSR Systems consist of a combination of steady burning light bars and flashers that provide pilot’s visual information on runway alignment, height perception, roll guidance, and horizontal references to support the visual portion of an instrument approach.
Medium Intensity Approach Lighting System with Runway Alignment Indicator Lights
The MALSR system consists of a Threshold Light, Steady Burning Light, and Sequenced Flasher. The threshold light array consists of 18 to 33 aviation green steady burning lights depending on runway width, arranged in a line at and parallel to the threshold of the runway. The steady burning light array consists of nine (9) sets of five (5) aviation white steady burning light sources called light bars. Seven (7) of the light bars are located at 200-foot intervals, in the direction of the approach and along the extended runway centerline, starting beyond the runway threshold. The remaining two steady burning light bars are offset to the left and right of the extended centerline at the 1,000-foot bar. The threshold light array and steady burning light array are collectively referred to as the approach light field. The sequenced flasher array consists of five (5) white flashing lamps, commonly referred to as flashers. The flasher are located at 200-foot intervals, in the direction of the approach and along the extended runway centerline, starting at 200 feet beyond the last steady burning light bar beginning at 1600 feet from the runway threshold. The collective flashing of all lights in the sequenced flasher array gives the appearance of a ball of light traveling toward the runway.
Note – MALS is identical to a MALSR in the inner 1400 foot segment, but does not include any sequenced flashing lights.
MALSR systems are deployed at hundreds of airports across the U.S., guiding pilots safely to runways in challenging weather conditions. If you’ve flown into a major commercial airport in the U.S., chances are you’ve seen one—even if you didn’t realize it.
“Approach lighting systems provide the bridge for the transition from instrument flight to visual see-to-land operations and are critical to safety.”
– Kelene A. Fercho, Office of Aerospace Medicine
MALSR - The Cat I Hero
MALSR is the unsung hero of Category I approaches, helping pilots transition from relying on instruments to visual cues just a few seconds before touchdown.
Upgradable Design
NBP’s modular design allows for upgrades as technology continues to advance.
All-Weather Build
Designed to perform reliably through snow, rain, fog, and intense sunlight
Proven in the Field
Currently, there are over 900 MALSR facilities in the U.S. NAS
Illuminating the Path Forward
Many MALSR systems are being modernized with LED lighting technology, increasing energy efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.
Part of a Bigger Picture
MALSR is just one part of the FAA’s broader NextGen modernization initiative—an integrated system of technologies aimed at making the National Airspace System (NAS) safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
At NBP, we’re proud to play a key role in that mission and look forward to continuing our contribution to the future of aviation.
Innovation in Engineering
Since 1966, NBP has established an undisputed reputation for innovation, quality, performance and integrity in the engineering, design and manufacturing of Landing Visual Aids including Approach Lighting Systems and Monitoring and Control Systems for the aviation, utility and defense industries. NBP also offers training and field support services.