JO 7110.65 — Air Traffic Control
JO 7110.65 3-4-8
MALSR/ODALS
Operate MALSR/ODALS that have separate on-off and intensity setting controls in accordance with TBL 3-4-6 and TBL 3-4-7 except:
When facility directives specify other settings to meet local atmospheric, topographic, and twilight conditions.
As requested by the pilot.
As you deem necessary, if not contrary to pilot's request. TBL 3-4-6 Two Step MALS/One Step RAIL/Two Step ODALS Settings
Visibility
Day
Night
MALS/ODALS RAIL
Hi On
Less than
3 miles
Less than
3 miles
MALS/ODALS RAIL
Low
Off
When requested
3 miles or more
*At locations providing part‐time control tower service, if duplicate controls are not provided in the associated FSS, the MALSR/ODALS must be set to low intensity during the hours of darkness when the tower is not staffed.
TBL 3-4-7 Three Step MALS/Three Step RAIL/Three Step ODALS Settings
Visibility
Day
Night
3
Less than 2 miles
Less than 1 mile
2
2 to 5 miles inclusive
1 to but not including 3 miles*
1
When requested
3 miles or more
*At locations providing part‐time control tower service, if duplicate controls are not provided in the FSS on the airport, the air‐to‐ground radio link must be activated during the hours of darkness when the tower is unmanned. If there is no radio air‐to‐ground control, the MALSR/ODALS must be set on intensity setting 2 during the hours of darkness when the tower is not staffed.
REFERENCE-
FAA Order JO 7210.3, Para 10-6-2, Operation of Lights When Tower is Closed.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 20, 2026.