.avif)
Solar glare and reflections from photovoltaic installations near airports can paralyze operations and cause millions in losses. Avoid surprises with a glare analysis. Here is what happened at Schiphol and how to prevent it.
The Schiphol case: glare forcing runway closures
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, one of Europe's most important hubs, is facing a critical situation: the potential closure of two of its three main runways during certain hours of the day. The cause? Solar reflections from a poorly planned photovoltaic park, built without considering the glare effects on approach paths.
The solar plant, initially designed with anti-reflective panels, was ultimately built using conventional modules. As a result, since its construction in 2024, pilots began reporting intense glare on the approach to runway 18R-36L. During certain time slots, the control tower was forced to close that runway, directly impacting the airport's operational capacity.
And worse: airport authorities were not properly informed during the solar park's authorization process.
Solar reflections and aeronautics: a combination that must be assessed with precision
When installing solar panels near an airport, it is not enough to look at the sky. You have to look at the sun. Specular reflections—those bright flashes like a mirror—can reach high luminance levels that are potentially disruptive to air navigation. This glare can occur even when the sun is not low, depending on the tilt of the panels, their orientation, and the observer's trajectory (in this case, the aircraft cockpit).
How is glare assessed?
At Ideas Medioambientales, we apply a methodology recognized by major European authorities. Using specialized software, we model all critical airport elements: approach paths, departure rolls, fixed receptors such as the control tower and operations centers, as well as internal road infrastructure. We also integrate the calculation of apparent luminance (cd/m²), an essential parameter required by EASA regulations and AENA operational guidelines.
Developers, authorities, and technicians: we are staying ahead of the curve
The Schiphol story is no exception. It is a warning, which is why photovoltaic developers must ensure the viability of their projects near airports. Meeting distance or height requirements is not enough; it will always be necessary to commission a glare study to avoid delays, redesigns, and, above all, conflicts. For their part, airport managers are demanding reports that include luminance, annual simulations, and actual flight paths to prevent risky situations before they occur.
Avoid problems before they take off
Reflections and glare at airports are a real risk, but they are also avoidable if you act in time. At Ideas Medioambientales, we have the technical expertise and up-to-date criteria to help you prevent conflicts, secure authorizations, and protect operational safety.
.jpeg)
.avif)
.jpeg)
