There’s a group of heroes at RIC who don’t wear capes.  These heroes answer the call when things seem most dire.  These heroes are part of the Richmond International Airport maintenance department.  Recently a lightning strike damaged 16 runway in-pavement, centerline light fixtures needed for CAT II/III ILS aircraft approach procedures.  In addition to this critical runway lighting surface, there was also some damage to the pavement.  Pilots rely on lighting systems and surfaces free of hazards to safely operate aircraft.  In the matter of just an hour’s notice the RIC maintenance team mobilized to make the necessary repairs.  In just 2 1/2 hours the crew restored the lighting system to safe operating tolerances, removing FOD and repairing surface defects caused by the lightning strike.  While runway closures can be painful for airlines the team at RIC work quickly and efficiently to minimize the duration of closures so that normal operations can resume.  A tip of the cap to our RIC maintenance heroes!  Thanks to them for the work they do to keep RIC safe and operational.