Upgrading Aeronautical Ground Lighting Systems at Biratnagar Airport

Overview

The project was executed for the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), reference SF-80-2688, to upgrade the Aeronautical Ground Lighting (AGL) infrastructure at Biratnagar Airport. Scope covered the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of Aeronautical Ground Lighting Systems and associated electrical components required for aircraft movement and airport operations. The project was completed on 2025-04-01, with a duration of one year and six months.

Scope & Deliverables

• Supply and delivery of high-intensity LED runway, approach, and apron lights.
• Installation of SALS, Runway Threshold Identification Lights (RTIL), wind direction indicators, and obstruction lights.
• Supply of AGL primary and secondary cables, isolating transformers, and control panels, with associated civil works.
• Upgradation of the PLC panel and modification of existing runway edge lights.
• Construction of RCC transformer chambers and cable protection systems.
• Design of the AGL system with reference to ICAO Annex 14, CAAN CAR-14, and FAA visual aids guidelines, adapted to actual site ground conditions.
• Sequential dismantling and installation of AGL fixtures and approach masts, coordinated through NOTAM issuance by the airport authority and phased with the civil contractor's parallel asphalt runway works to limit disruption to airport operations, including night operations.
• Comprehensive testing, commissioning, and survey alignment of the AGL system, including factory acceptance tests.
• On-site operation and maintenance training on the AGL system delivered to the CAAN electrical team over one week.

Outcome

The upgraded AGL system at Biratnagar Airport was tested, commissioned, and handed over to CAAN. The CAAN electrical team completed one week of on-site operation and maintenance training on the system. Biratnagar Airport now operates with upgraded runway, approach, and apron lighting, supported by new AGL cabling, isolating transformers, control panels, and RCC transformer chambers.