THLs Training Briefing

In order to provide the desired level of safety without impairing the efficiency of the controller, the timing of the lights is critical. Pilots should recognize that the Takeoff Hold Lights (THLs) might be illuminated when the controller initiates a clearance, but they should be extinguished before the controller finishes issuing the clearance. THLs TURNING OFF DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CLEARANCE TO TAKE OFF FROM A RUNWAY. The RWSL system is designed to provide a direct status indication to pilots that it is unsafe to depart from the runway.

Pilots will be trained in the RWSL concept and THL procedures before the RWSL operational evaluation commences. These include the following:

1. If in position and holding on the runway and the THLs illuminate, then the flight crew should remain in position for takeoff.
2. If an aircraft begins its takeoff roll and the flight crew subsequently observes illuminated THLs, then — if practical — the flight crew should stop the airplane and notify Air Traffic Control (ATC) that they are stopped because of red lights.
3. If aborting the takeoff is impractical for safety reasons, then crews should proceed according to their best judgment of safety (understanding that the illuminated THLs indicate the runway is unsafe for departure) and contact ATC at the earliest opportunity.
4. If on short final and THLs are illuminated red, then crews should inform ATC they are going around because of red lights on the runway.

THLs Training briefing (PowerPoint slideshow)

THLs Training Briefing (Adobe pdf) 

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