Avlite proudly introduces its advanced Series 3 LED Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), a compact, lightweight solution that has successfully achieved FAA L-880/881 (L) Intertek certification to AC 150/5345-28H Style A Class I, with Style B certification currently pending. The Series 3 has also passed rigorous third-party photometric and chromaticity testing in accordance with ICAO Annex 14 requirements. This third-generation LED PAPI system meets both FAA and ICAO standards in a single versatile unit, providing consistent, accurate approach slope guidance to pilots through its patented LED optics. These optics are engineered for the industry’s sharpest red/white transition line, uniform intensity, and the lowest power consumption in its class, ensuring heightened visual clarity and enhanced pilot safety.
Designed and manufactured in the United States, Avlite’s Series 3 LED PAPI and AV-70 taxiway lights qualify under the FAA National Buy American Waiver, making them eligible for funding through the Federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP). This approval ensures that airports of all sizes, including those undertaking major infrastructure projects, can confidently incorporate these advanced lighting systems into their construction plans.
The Series 3 LED PAPI is engineered for both commercial and military use, with configurations available for permanent installation or rapid deployment in portable scenarios such as displaced thresholds. Supporting both visual and infrared (IR/NVG) operations within the same optic, the system is easily switchable by ground operators, offering flexible use in a wide range of operational conditions. It is available in two-box (FAA L-881) and four-box (FAA L-880) configurations, as well as ICAO-compliant PAPI and A-PAPI formats, all of which can be supplied with external baffles and marine-grade finishes in ICAO Yellow, FAA Orange, NATO Green, or Desert Sand for added environmental durability.
The LED PAPI offers multiple power input options to suit diverse airfield requirements, including AC (90–264VAC), DC (24VDC), solar, and constant current regulator (CCR) systems compliant with ICAO. It also supports 3- and 5-step current inputs via a 100W transformer per light head assembly. Control interfaces include manual, wireless, power line control (for AC versions), and Pilot Activated Lighting Control (PALC or ARCAL), offering flexibility across airport infrastructure types. With ultra-reliable long-life LEDs and minimal maintenance needs, the Series 3 is a field-proven performer with over 100 installations worldwide, from the Arctic to remote desert airstrips.
Originally developed by Laser Guidance Inc., a U.S.-based manufacturer known for precision aviation lighting systems, the Series 3 continues to evolve as a global solution. Fully compliant with FAA, ICAO, and UFC 3-535-01 requirements, the Avlite LED Series 3 PAPI stands out as a reliable, efficient, and future-ready system that supports the critical visual navigation needs of both civilian and defense aviation sectors.
https://www.avlite.com/product/papi-lights/
