New 387 LED replacement lamps from Aerco reduce operating costs

The Nichia LEDs used in the 387 LED lamps consume two and half times less power than filament lamps and have an anticipated life of 50,000 hours compared to 7,000 hours. In practice, the life of a filament lamp used on aircraft can be as low as 1,000 to 2,000 hours because of the effect of constant vibration on ageing lamps. This means that LEDs can last up to 50 times longer than filament lamps. Replacement of lamps is labour-intensive and costly and in addition, a high percentage of the power consumption of a standard filament lamp is converted into wasted heat. This produces a typical front panel temperature of 35.4°C compared to 25.5°C using an LED and this overheating can cause damage to switches and logo discolouring.

The 387 LED is a direct replacement to the standard lamp and requires no changes in fixing or signage and only one part number is required to replace both cockpit and cabin lamps. The 387 LED lamps have been extensively tested on aircraft and flight simulators, carry FAA PMA approval and have been shock and vibration testing in accordance with RTCA/DO-160Fd.