Complete Guide to Luminous Visual Aids (AVL) for Heliport Safety
The design of a heliport, whether ground-based, elevated, or on a naval platform, requires meticulous attention to safety and regulatory compliance. Luminous Visual Aids (AVL) are a critical component of the infrastructure, essential for guiding pilots during the delicate phases of approach, landing, and take-off (TLOF/FATO), especially in low-visibility conditions or during night operations.
BAGLEM S.R.L., a leader in the production of aeronautical equipment, offers a complete ecosystem of AVL solutions, designed to the highest quality standards and fully compliant with ICAO Annex 14.
1. Guidance and Visual Reference Systems
For a safe approach, pilots need clear and unambiguous references.
Illuminated Windsock (LWC): Provides immediate visual indication of wind direction and speed on the landing pad.
Article Codes: BGL-MAN04R6030, BGL-MAN06R6030.
Precision Approach Path Indicators (HAPI/GPI): Essential for maintaining the correct descent path. The HAPI (Helicopter Approach Path Indicator) system emits a four-sector light beam that changes color to indicate the pilot's position relative to the ideal trajectory.
HAPI Codes: BGL-L881HAPI01, BGL-L881HAPI100.
GPI Codes: BGL-800GPI01, BGL-800GPI00.
2. Operational Area Lighting
Proper helipad lighting is crucial for depth perception and maneuvering safety.
Perimeter Lights TLOF/FATO: Define the Touchdown and Lift-Off area (TLOF) and the Final Approach and Take-Off area (FATO). Available in low-profile versions to withstand vehicle traffic and raised versions.
Recessed Version: BGL-TLOFI0A30, BGL-TLOFI0G30, BGL-TLOFIØGIR, BGL-FATOI0W30.
Raised Version: BGL-TLOFE0A30, BGL-TLOFE0G30, BGL-TLOFE0GIR, BGL-FATOE0W30.
Floodlighting: Uniformly illuminates the landing pad surface to reveal texture and eliminate shadows, facilitating low-altitude maneuvers.
Article Codes: BGL-FLOO1A55, BGL-FL0O1DA55.
Beacon: Emits white flashes for long-distance heliport identification.
Article Codes: BGL-LHB0001, BGL-LHB0002.
3. Control Systems and Accessories
Integrated management of the entire lighting system ensures efficiency and reliability.
Control Panels and Units: The core of the system, allowing centralized management of all lights.
Radio Control (RCE): BGL-L854000 – Allows the pilot to activate the lights via radio.
Command Panel 4.0: BGL-QEL4.0-005 – Advanced unit for complete system control and diagnostics.
Safety Accessories:
FOD Grid: BGL-GRID-IN – Prevents debris (Foreign Object Debris) from being lifted by the rotor and causing damage.
Access Control System: BGL-BARR4-A – Ensures perimeter security of the area.
4. Sustainable Power Solutions
BAGLEM S.R.L. focuses on innovation and sustainability. Upon request, heliport power systems can be designed using renewable energy, including photovoltaic panels and storage systems, ideal for remote installations or to reduce the carbon footprint.
