The first of a series of flight tests for the newly installed runway, taxiway, approach and apron lights at Queenstown Airport lit up the facility last night.
Air navigation service provider Airways flew a helicopter over the airport for a visual inspection, carried out by engineers and flight inspectors.
A spokeswoman said the results of the tests would be known once data had been analysed. Further flight tests could occur over the next week.
The 200 lights, which had either been repositioned or installed, cost $1.65 million.
The lights were turned on and off as required as the helicopter flew approach and departure paths repeatedly.
Civil Aviation Authority representatives were on site and, subject to flight tests by airlines scheduled between April 30 and May 15, and final approval by Queenstown Airport, would give approval for the commissioning of the lights.
The lighting project was part of a wider $19.6 million runway infrastructure upgrade, which has included widening the runway to 45m.
