AIRPORT GAINS FIRST FAA PC-BASED RVR SYSTEM

Avoca, PA (November 1, 2007) -- The first FAA PC-based Runway Visual Range (RVR) system has been installed at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.

The RVR system incorporates visibility and other sensors to provide an accurate picture of runway visual range, which is an estimate of the distance a pilot can see down a runway.

“We are very pleased to be serving as a launch pad for the testing of this new RVR system in the National Airspace System (NAS),” said Jose Joga, AVP Tower Manager. “We expect to provide user feedback to technicians prior to implementation that will serve to improve the current systems in place that assist pilots in landing and departing safely under poor weather conditions.”

The RVR installation consists of two visibility sensor sites at each end of the main runway and a data processing unit installation at the air traffic control tower equipment room. Five controller displays will be installed at various airport locations to monitor the RVR data.

The RVR system will be used by FAA to conduct further product testing in an operational environment until spring 2008. A successful test period will lead to an in-service decision by late spring. The RVR system will then be certified for use in the agency's National Airspace System and installations at other airports may commence.