As a pilot this sort of thing `scares the hell out of me'... I'm use to
flying in and out of uncontrolled airfields. My first thought is to work
with local law enforcement as this crime can result in death or injury. If
the FBO can afford it, he/she should hire a security agency or at least one
attendant. Having followed this discussion, one thing that still confuses me
is; what good would it do to detect missing lights if no one is around to
replace them and/or warn pilots? I would assume the FBO would have the
lights inspected during the day.

   If I missed something and there really is an attendant at night, and
he/she cannot monitor the runway, and they won't hire security personnel,
then look at perimeter security around the runway. This ranges from simple
devices on a fence to Microwave and LASER sensors (or fences) which are
fairly common and they do not interfere with aircraft systems or pilot
vision.

   Failing the above, then look at existing commercial runway lighting
systems that provide computer control and monitoring and are approved by the
FAA. While it's interesting and educational to look at exotic solutions,
this problem requires something proven and reliable. Human lives and
property are at stake here...

   The `bottom-line' is that the FBO should concentrate on security and deal
with the source of the problem. It's hard enough to land at night without
ILS aids and the usual daylight visual queues. Missing lights are a
`recipe for disaster' whether they are monitored or not...

   - Tom