External lighting restrictions

CASA has the authority, under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1988, to control ground lights where they have the potential to cause confusion or distraction (from glare) to pilots in the air. Ground lights may cause confusion or distraction because of their colour, position, pattern or intensity of light emission above the horizontal plane.

Regulations on lighting in the vicinity of aerodromes is located in the CASA Manual of Standards Part 139 – Aerodromes, Section 9.143. It is the responsibility of the lighting designer to ensure that lights meet the requirements prescribed in the Civil Aviation Regulations, Civil Aviation Safety Regulations and Manual of Standards Part 139. It is also the responsibility of the lighting supplier to meet National Airports Safeguarding Framework (NASF) Guideline E Managing the Risk of Distractions to Pilots from Lighting near Airports (see link here).

How do you apply?

Applications to install lighting, equipment or laser that exceed the maximum lighting intensities (a diagram depicting the maximum lighting intensities at Moorabbin Airport can be found here) should be emailed to development@moorabbinairport.com.au
Moorabbin Airport must notify CASA as soon as possible after the application is received.
CASA must:
a. consider whether the notification identifies a risk to the safety of aviation
b. if necessary, issue directions for action to mitigate the risk.
The lighting must not be installed until CASA has assessed and approved in writing the lighting intensity proposed for installation, equipment or laser.