LIGHTING THE AIRWAYS: ADVANCED HIGH MAST LIGHTING AT FARNBOROUGH AIRPORT

Farnborough Airport, the birthplace of British aviation and Europe's number one business aviation airport, has long been a symbol of excellence in aviation infrastructure.

The Airport handles around 31,000 aircraft movements annually. With the opening of Domus III last year, a state-of-the-art 175,000 sq. ft. hangar facility, Farnborough Airport continues to set benchmarks in aviation innovation and sustainability.

The Domus III project was overseen by McLaughlin and Harvey as the Principal Contractor. CU Phosco, acting as a sub-contractor, was responsible for designing and delivering a comprehensive high mast lighting solution that met the specified standards. As a preferred supplier for Farnborough Airport, CU Phosco has been involved in various projects at the Airport for several years.

The project was pivotal in supporting Farnborough Airport's environmental goals, minimising energy consumption while using more energy efficient lighting, and follows a series of successful milestones in recent years at the Airport. In 2024, Farnborough Airport was awarded Level 4+carbon accreditation status by the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) scheme, one of only five UK airports and the only business aviation airport to achieve such recognition. Also last year, Farnborough Airport completed one of the largest light-weight solar installations in the South East, enabling the Airport to generate 25% of its own power. In 2022, for a two-week trial period in the lead up to the Farnborough International Airshow, Farnborough Airport became the first airport in the world to offer SAF at the same price as standard Jet A1 fuel, after it took a major step in driving the adoption of SAF by offering it to all customers the year prior. Also in 2022, Farnborough Airport made a commitment to be Net Zero by 2030 or sooner for emissions within its control, setting one of the most ambitious targets in the aviation industry.

CU Phosco collaborated with ATG Airports to provide a turnkey solution that optimised lighting across the Airport's new apron. A total of 13 high masts, manufactured at CU Phosco's Bradford facility, were equipped with 50 FL800D luminaires. The luminaires, designed for superior thermal management and high lumen output, ensure exceptional visibility while minimising energy consumption.

Each high mast features the CU Phosco Raise and Lower System, enabling safe and efficient maintenance without the need to close large areas of the apron. This innovative system lowers the luminaire carriage to ground level in one smooth operation, reducing disruption to airport operations and enhancing safety.

The FL800D luminaires, equipped with Samsung CSP LEDs and the AeroFlow® Cooling System, deliver consistent performance and longevity. This combination of advanced optics and robust construction ensures the lighting system meets the stringent requirements set by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Farnborough Airport.

The project supports Farnborough Airport's sustainability objectives by reducing energy usage and maintenance costs. The self-contained FL800ds luminaires, with their superior thermal management and high lumen output, ensure optimal illumination with minimal environmental impact.

Stephanie Bishop, Head of Infrastructure at Farnborough Airport, commented, “CU Phosco is a well-known and reputable supplier at Farnborough Airport, consistently delivering high-quality products for several years. Recently, they played a crucial role in the Domus III project, managed by Principal Contractors McLaughlin and Harvey, by providing 13 high mast lights of exceptional quality.”