A GROUND-LEVEL PERSPECTIVE ON SUSTAINABILITY
From terminals to taxiways, airports require continuous and reliable lighting, making it a significant contributor to energy use. Apron lighting, in particular, is crucial for the safety and efficiency of ground operations, but it is one of the most energy-hungry components of airport infrastructure.
Historically, high-pressure sodium (HPS) or metal halide systems dominated airport lighting. However, modern LED technologies offer substantial advantages. LEDs consume up to 50–70% less energy, produce brighter, more uniform light, and last significantly longer, reducing maintenance costs and resource consumption.
For example, Stansted Airport’s transition to high-mast LED floodlighting resulted in energy savings of over 1 million kWh annually, cutting consumption by 50% without compromising safety.
WHY LIGHTING MATTERS IN THE PATH TO NET ZERO
Energy efficiency
Switching to LED lighting can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%
Energy efficiency is paramount when evaluating modern lighting systems. LEDs outperform traditional HID systems, converting more energy into light while consuming up to half the power.
Beyond efficiency, LEDs offer dimming capabilities, enabling energy savings during periods of low activity—an option not available with HID systems. This flexibility reduces emissions and operational costs, freeing up resources for further sustainability initiatives.
Lifecycle impact and circular economy:
Sustainability extends beyond operation. Procurement teams must therefore evaluate the environmental footprint of lighting systems throughout their lifecycle, including: raw material sourcing, manufacture, transportation and packaging: including minimising emissions during delivery and installation and end-of-life management: prioritising recyclable and renewable components.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE AIRPORT LIGHTING
1. Airfield Lighting: Supporting Efficient Ground Operations
The transition to LED airfield lighting offers brighter, more uniform light that enhances visibility during nighttime and low-visibility conditions. This improves safety and operational efficiency, especially for pilots and ground crews. Airports should prioritise systems that meet ICAO standards while incorporating features like dimming or scheduling to minimise energy use.
Example: At Stansted Airport, high-mast LED floodlighting reduced energy consumption by 50%—saving over 1 million kWh annually—without compromising ground crew safety or operational standards.
Top Tip: Opting for quality, modular LED systems that can be upgraded, ensure compatibility with future LED advancements.
2. Apron and Gate Areas: Targeting High-Energy Zones
Apron and gate lighting are critical for airline operations, facilitating passenger boarding, baggage handling, and aircraft maintenance. Airlines should encourage airports to adopt precision-engineered lighting systems that minimise glare and energy waste while enhancing visibility for ground staff.
Example: At Heathrow Airport, high-mast LED floodlighting reduced energy consumption by 55%.
Top Tip: Don’t forget about the columns. High mast systems like CU Phosco’s In-Tension Raise & Lower system prioritise safety by enabling all maintenance to be performed from ground level. By eliminating latches and reducing exposure to environmental factors like dirt and salt, these systems minimise maintenance downtime and improve reliability—critical benefits in high-traffic areas like aprons and gates.
Car Parks and Access Areas: A Holistic Approach to Emissions
Although not directly tied to flight operations, car parks and access roads contribute to the overall carbon footprint. Upgrading these areas with LED floodlights can significantly reduce energy savings while enhancing passenger perceptions of safety.
Example: At Stansted Airport’s Short Stay Car Park, which features over 3,000 parking spaces and which has been awarded the prestigious Park Mark – a national standard that recognises car parks with low crime rates and efficient management, switching to LED floodlights led to a 65% reduction in energy use, demonstrating how small changes in peripheral areas can have a substantial impact.
Top Tip: Don’t forget lighting for CCTV. Precision, high-quality floodlighting.
Smart Controls
Lighting upgrades are only part of the solution. Smart control systems, such as hard-wired Central Management Systems (CMS), enable real-time monitoring and adjustment of lighting, ensuring energy is used only where and when it’s needed. These systems enhance efficiency and reduce waste by dimming or switching off lights in unoccupied areas.
Smart Controls Enable:
- Real-time energy optimisation: Lights operate only when needed.
- Improved passenger experience: Supporting sustainability expectations without sacrificing quality.
- Operational flexibility: Better responsiveness to irregular schedules.
For airlines, this means:
- Reduced emissions from ground operations.
- Greater flexibility during irregular schedules.
- Enhanced passenger satisfaction by aligning with sustainability expectations.
Collaboration is Crucial
Airlines play a vital role in driving sustainable change. By partnering with airport operators, they can advocate for investments in greener infrastructure and share insights to tailor solutions for operational efficiency. Collaboration also extends to broader initiatives, such as integrating renewable energy and implementing carbon offset programmes.
Lighting the Way Forward
Airports stand at the intersection of operational efficiency and sustainability. While net-zero ambitions often centre on aviation, lighting offers a tangible and immediate way to cut emissions and enhance safety. By championing advanced lighting solutions and fostering collaboration, airlines and airports can illuminate a path to a greener future—one where innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
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