The EAGLE is the most advanced hybrid airfield lighting solution ever to be fielded in the industry and is the result of a teaming effort between Avlite Systems and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC). SNC is a world-class prime systems integrator and electronic systems provider known for its rapid, innovative and agile technology solutions.
The Avlite / SNC EAGLE are deployable solar runway lights for VFR and non-precision IFR lighting requirements. EAGLE runway lights can be used autonomously or as part of a complete portable solar airfield lighting system providing auxiliary power and a master control unit with extensive diagnostic and fault detection capabilities. The EAGLE can also be operated from the ALSCMCU (airfield lighting system master control unit).
The EAGLE has non-precision IFR and VFR capability with both visible and near-infrared lighting outputs. The airfield lights can be controlled anywhere in the airfield by handheld radio controller, in the air traffic control tower or from the aircraft via VHF receiver with virtually unlimited range using an encrypted repeating mesh network. The EAGLE has three selectable modes; always on, dusk-till-dawn and standby. When set to dusk-till-dawn mode, integrated sensors in the light are able to detect when the ambient light threshold drops sufficiently and the light will begin operation automatically.
There is significant value in rapid installation for non-precision IFR operations in areas of no infrastructure. When in High-Intensity Mode the lights can run for over 40 hours before recharging of the battery is needed. If requirements exceed 40 hours of operation at IFR capable high-intensity output, high voltage power cables can be attached to the EAGLE allowing for continuous operations at any intensity. A high voltage direct connection to the EAGLE allows for redundant power, quick battery recharge during operation and the added level of safety of not having a single point of failure in the entire system.
Lights can be set to Low (10%), Medium (30%), High (100%).
Lights are able to be assigned to a ‘light group’, and groups can be controlled independently using the wireless handheld controller.