Electrical Aerodrome Technical Inspection (EATI)
An Electrical Aerodrome Technical Inspection is a critical component of ensuring that an airport’s lighting and electrical reticulation systems remain safe, compliant, and fully operational. Because aerodrome lighting provides the primary visual cues for pilots and ground personnel during night operations and periods of reduced visibility, these systems must be inspected with precision, technical rigour, and a clear understanding of regulatory requirements.
Our inspection process is aligned with CASA AC 139.C 04 and any relevant standards and requirements tailored for your aerodrome. This allows us to provide airports with independent assurance that every lighting system, control interface, and electrical asset is functioning correctly, positioned accurately, and delivering the illumination performance required for safe aircraft operations.
Lighting Systems Included in the Inspection
A comprehensive Electrical Aerodrome Technical Inspection covers every lighting system and associated electrical infrastructure installed at the aerodrome. In accordance with CASA guidance, we assess the following systems where provided:
- Runway edge lighting
- Runway centreline and touchdown zone lighting
- Runway threshold and runway end lights
- Approach lighting systems
- Illuminated wind direction indicators
- Pilot-activated lighting systems
- Stop bar lighting
- Runway guard lights
- Visual Approach Slope Indicator Systems (VASIS/PAPI)
- Taxiway centreline lights or reflective markers
- Illuminated Movement Area Guidance Signs (MAGS)
- Apron edge lighting
- Apron floodlighting for stands and parking positions
- Obstacle lights and beacons maintained by the aerodrome operator
Each system is inspected during darkness where required, ensuring that illumination, alignment, and operational performance can be accurately evaluated under practical conditions.
Pre-Inspection Verification
Before commencing the inspection, we confirm that each lighting system has been correctly commissioned and is operating within its intended configuration. This includes:
- Verifying commissioning records
- Confirming correct circuit loading and CCR configuration
- Ensuring all systems are available for testing
- Checking that maintenance logs and scheduled servicing are up to date
This step ensures that the inspection evaluates the system in its true operational state.
What the Inspection Confirms
1. Lighting Positioning and Compliance
All lighting systems must be correctly positioned, aligned, and installed in accordance with current standards. We verify:
- Correct lateral and longitudinal placement
- Fixture height and mounting integrity
- Compliance with frangibility requirements
- Correct orientation for directional lighting systems
2. Cleanliness and Visibility
Elevated lights must be free from contamination that could reduce visibility or alter photometric output. We check for:
- Dust, dirt, rubber deposits, and insect accumulation
- Vegetation encroachment
- Obstructions affecting visibility or beam spread
3. Switching and Intensity Control
Lighting systems must respond correctly to operational commands. We test:
- Step changes and intensity control
- Switching logic and sequencing
- Correct operation of control panels and ALCMS interfaces
4. Alignment of Visual Navigation Aids
Precision visual aids such as VASIS/PAPI require accurate alignment to ensure correct glide path information. We confirm:
- Vertical and horizontal alignment
- Correct mounting on frangible couplings
- Accurate intensity changes
- Fixture height and orientation
5. Light Colour and Illumination Levels
Lighting colour, intensity, and uniformity must meet regulatory standards. We assess:
- Colour output for compliance with ICAO chromaticity requirements
- Illumination levels for apron floodlighting
- Lighting performance for each aircraft parking position
- Minimum illumination levels across the apron
6. Power Supply Reliability
Reliable power is essential for safe operations. We verify:
- Primary and secondary power supply performance
- Changeover times for backup systems; if applicable
- Condition of switchboards, distribution boards, and protection devices
7. Pilot-Activated Lighting (PAL)
Where installed, PAL systems must respond correctly to pilot input. We test:
- Activation sequences
- Intensity step changes
- System reset and timeout functions
8. Maintenance Compliance
We confirm that all prescribed and scheduled maintenance has been completed, including:
- Lamp and fixture servicing
- Transformer and connector inspections
- Cable testing and pit maintenance
- CCR / MIT functionality checks
Delivering Clear, Actionable Outcomes
Following the inspection, we provide a comprehensive, audit-ready report that includes:
- Compliance status for each lighting system
- Identified defects, risks, and non conformances
- Photographic evidence and location references
- Recommended corrective actions
- Priority ratings for maintenance planning
- Verification of completed maintenance activities
Our Electrical Aerodrome Technical Inspection gives airports the confidence that their lighting and electrical systems are safe, compliant, and performing exactly as required for day-to-day operations and regulatory audits.
Stay compliant and confident with professional airfield lighting technical auditing.