scope:

This order establishes an FAA interservice agreement that provides for consistent low-visibility (less than RVR 1200) airport operations; establishes requirements for uniform low-visibility airport equipment and enhancements; and implements uniform air traffic control (ATC) and airport operator practices and expectations.

Purpose of This Order. This order provides policy to standardize Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS) operations at U.S. airports. It establishes the necessary Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) headquarters (HQ) and operating services roles, responsibilities, and activities for low-visibility operations at Runway Visual Range (RVR) of values less than 1,200 feet for each runway at an airport. This order incorporates the current edition of Advisory Circular (AC) 120-57, Surface Movement Guidance and Control System, or its future replacement, and requires airport operators that seek new or continued FAA SMGCS authorization to comply with its directions. AC 120-57 includes references to other pertinent ACs that contain additional requirements that a Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 139 certified airport must meet.