London-Corbin Airport getting LED lighting

The London-Corbin Airport will experience some temporary closures over the coming weeks in order to install new runway lighting.

The London-Corbin Airport will be closed to fixed-wing air traffic for three days each week beginning in July as crews work to install a new LED lighting system on the runway and taxiway.

Airport Manager Larry Corum said the project would take 10 weeks to complete. In an effort to keep the airport operating, officials worked out a schedule to close the airport Saturday through Monday between July and mid-September.

“The work will take 30 days but we spread it out over two-and-a-half months,” Corum said.

Corum said during the periods when the airport is closed, the numbers on the runway would be covered with two large “X’s.” In addition, notices will be filed with the Federal Aviation Administration to advise pilots when the runway is closed.

Corum said the funding for the project, the cost of which is more than $650,000, is coming from the state.

While fixed-wing aircraft will be affected, Corum said helicopter service would not be. Phi Air Medical and Air Methods, both base medical transport helicopters, while the Kentucky National Guard conducts air operations.

“The helicopters don’t have to have the runway,” Corum explained

Corum said the current lighting system is more than 30 years old. The new system is designed to be brighter, more economical and reliable.

“They bulbs are easier to replace and the brightness is variable depending on the weather,” Corum explained.