Pilot observation of the approach lighting system at the Decision Altitude allows the pilot to continue descending towards the runway, even if the runway or runway lights cannot be seen, since the ALS counts as runway end environment. In the U.S., an ILS without approach lights may have CAT I ILS visibility minimums as low as 3⁄4 mile (1.2 km) (runway visual range of 4,000 feet (1,200 m)) if the required obstacle clearance surfaces are clear of obstructions. Visibility minimums of 1⁄2 mile (0.80 km) (runway visual range of 2,400 feet (730 m)) are possible with a CAT I ILS approach supported by a 1,400-to-3,000-foot-long (430 to 910 m) ALS, and 3⁄8 mile (600 m) visibility 1,800-foot (550 m) visual range is possible if the runway has high-intensity edge lights, touchdown zone and centerline lights, and an ALS that is at least 2,400 feet (730 m) long (see Table 3-3-1 "Minimum visibility values" in FAA Order 8260.3C).[12] In effect, ALS extends the runway environment out towards the landing aircraft and allows low-visibility operations.