Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Some Details About An Aviation Warning Beacon

By Olivia Cross


An aviation warning beacon comes in handy in advising pilots about tall objects that lie along the flight path. Any low flying aircraft will find such information helpful as it will deter collision. Several structures such as broadcast transmission masts, tall buildings and other landscape features above 200 feet high should have these lights installed. Without the warning lights, flying would be hazardous. Besides, FAA regulations call for proper installation of the beacons on the said objects.

Some regulations govern installation of aircraft signal beacons. As mentioned earlier, FAA and other stakeholders require every structure which is 200 feet tall to be properly marked using these lights. In addition, structures around the airport may also call for proper marking even if they are not 200 feet tall. This makes such objects visible to the pilot and he or she can make proper decision to avoid accidents. These lights are not only used during the night but also at daytime.

Two main colors for aircraft signal lights exist. There are the red lamps which usually turn on and off in a sequence of few seconds or are continuously illuminated. They could also be xenon discharge flashers which are white in color. However, today beacons come in a variety of colors such as amber, green, blue and yellow. The beacon will have such lights in different codes depending on the kind of airport or the message being passed.

The red lights are generally found in urban areas especially during the night. This is because of their distinguished flash that makes them highly visible amidst other lights. This way, the pilots can easily spot them. White xenon flashers work best during the day. These could be used in urban areas though not suitable for highly populated areas as they combine with background lights and become hard to spot. Poor visibility of lights increases chances of aircraft collision.

Development in technology has led to increase in tall structures. This also leads to increased use for the aircraft signal lights. Having such lights properly installed in any tall structure will help prevent unnecessary collisions. Besides, this is one way to comply with aviation regulations.

It is important to have properly trained and experienced professionals designing and installing the beacons. These structures play an important role and should not be left in the hands of beginners in the field to install. Besides, experienced professionals will advise their clients on the right materials to buy as well as proper installation procedures that match FAA requirements.

Aircraft signal signs also include special paints applied on the masts or antenna towers hosting the beacons. Antenna towers around the airport will also need to be painted even if they are lower than 200 feet. However, not all states have this requirement for their airports.

It is crucial to point out that the lights are not helpful to pilots only but passengers too. From the air plane, passengers can clearly see these beacons, something that makes them feel safer. Flying around tall buildings could be scary and uncomfortable. Only proper visibility of any possible obstruction will encourage passengers making them feel at ease. This way, they can enjoy their flight.




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