CU Phosco Delivers Robust, Future-Proof Lighting Solution for One of the World’s Most Remote Airfields

  Posted by: electime      28th May 2026

CU Phosco has delivered a robust, future-proof high mast lighting solution for Ascension Island Airport, working in partnership with Gantech Solutions Ltd to replace ageing infrastructure at one of the world’s most remote and strategically important airfields. The upgrade improves lighting performance, reliability and energy efficiency while meeting the demanding operational requirements of a critical military and aviation hub.

Located in the South Atlantic Ocean, approximately 550 miles south of the equator and midway between Brazil and Africa, Ascension Island Airport plays a critical role as a refuelling stop for aircraft travelling between the UK and the Falkland Islands. Operated under joint control of the UK Ministry of Defence and the United States Air Force, the airport’s Wideawake Airfield is a strategically important asset requiring reliable, high-performance infrastructure.

After more than 35 years of service in a harsh coastal and marine environment, the existing apron lighting system had reached the end of its operational life. Corrosion, obsolete components and ongoing maintenance challenges meant a full upgrade was required to ensure continued safe and compliant airfield operations.

Gantech Solutions Ltd was appointed to deliver a design and build solution, working closely with CU Phosco to develop a robust and future-proof lighting system tailored to the unique demands of the site.

The original project brief called for refurbishment and reuse of the existing high mast structures. However, following a detailed site survey and technical evaluation, it became clear that this approach would not be viable.

Lionel Gapper, Director at Gantech Solutions Ltd, explains:

“Although the original brief considered reusing the existing masts, our site investigations and further structural assessments showed that corrosion and long-term stress had significantly impacted their integrity. Reuse was not a safe or reliable option.”

Working with CU Phosco, an alternative solution was developed that retained the existing concrete foundations and cabling infrastructure while introducing new high mast systems designed to meet modern performance and safety standards.

The final solution comprised:

• 5 x 20m high masts fitted with 35 FL800R-2 LED floodlights
• 2 x 20m high masts and 2 x 15m mid-hinge masts fitted with 16 FL820-1 LED floodlights

New masts were engineered to match existing foundation and bolt configurations, allowing installation without major civil works. Each mast incorporated modern winching systems, new lighting cradles and upgraded control systems to improve reliability and ease of maintenance.

Lionel continues:

“We worked closely with CU Phosco to develop a solution that met the constraints of the site while delivering a significant improvement in performance. Using the existing foundations and infrastructure where possible helped reduce complexity, while the new masts and lighting system ensured long-term reliability.”

The lighting design was developed to meet the required illumination levels and operational standards set by the Ministry of Defence, USAF and international aviation guidelines, ensuring safe and effective apron operations.

The completed installation has delivered a major improvement in both performance and efficiency at Ascension Island Airport.

The transition from legacy SON lighting to LED technology has significantly reduced power consumption, while providing improved light quality, uniformity and visibility across the apron.

Lionel Gapper comments:

“The difference in performance is clear. The new LED system provides far better light quality and consistency, while also delivering substantial energy savings. Given the remote location of the island, reliability and ease of maintenance were key considerations, and the new system addresses both.”

The upgrade has reduced total power consumption from approximately 72kW to 22.96kW, delivering a saving of over 49kW per hour. This represents a significant reduction in operational energy demand, alongside improved long-term efficiency.

In addition to energy savings, the new installation offers:

• Improved reliability in a harsh coastal and volcanic environment
• Reduced maintenance requirements due to modern components and simplified systems
• A design life aligned with long-term operational requirements
• Enhanced safety and compliance with relevant aviation standards

The new lighting system provides a robust, future-proof solution for one of the most remote and strategically important airfields in the world.

For more information about CU Phosco’s high mast lighting solutions, visit: https://www.cuphosco.com/products/category/high-mast-lighting