Firehead FT34 Flash Light Head

The Firehead FT34 is the flash lamp head used in Flashelek's Sequential Flash Lamp Systems (SFLS) for precision-approach runway lighting and heliport approach lighting. It is built around a PAR56 xenon flash tube energised at 2,000 V, the discharge configuration that produces the sharp, high-intensity pulse required to penetrate low-visibility conditions during CAT I, II, and III ILS approaches.

In a runway SFLS installation, a row of FT34 heads is wired in sequence to a JX2300 or JX2360 control box, which governs the inter-flash delay and overall period. For Category I approaches, the system fires 30 sequential flashes at 14 ms intervals within a 0.5-second period, creating the visual 'running light' effect that draws a pilot's eye along the extended centreline to the threshold. For Category II/III approaches, 21 flashes at the same 14 ms cadence are used. For heliport approach systems, a gentler 4-flash sequence at 267 ms intervals over a 2-second period applies. REIL (Runway End Identification Light) and ODAL (Omni-Directional Approach Light) configurations are also supported.

The FT34 is a field-replaceable head: the PAR56 lamp is the consumable element, and the head mechanical assembly is designed for maintenance on-wing at the light unit rather than requiring cabinet disassembly. Flashelek's commitment to 15+ years' spare-parts availability means PAR56 replacement lamps remain sourced, a material consideration for airfield operators managing life-cycle costs on Category II/III equipment where unplanned outage triggers NOTAM and approach minima changes.