Importance Of An Aviation Warning Beacon

By Olivia Cross


An aviation warning beacon is helpful in informing pilots what lies ahead of their flight path. Basically, certain structures that pilots should beware of when flying include broadcast transmission masts, tall buildings and other landscape features that could cause obstruction. Without these beacons, flying will not only be a challenge but also a great hazard. This makes it necessary for all to comply with FAA regulations about installation of such warning signs.

It is important to note that there are set requirements for installation of aircraft warning lights. For once, any structure at least 200 feet above the ground should have such warning lights installed. Those structures near the airport may require such lights regardless of their height. This way, pilots can actually see from far that there is an obstruction ahead so that they could make decisions in good time. The lights are used both during the day and at night.

The beacons come in two main colors. The greatly noticeable high intensity red lamps that go on and off sequentially every few minutes. These could also be designed to keep illuminated always. The second type are the xenon discharge strobes usually white in color. However, one can find beacons of different colors today including yellow, blue, amber and green coded to pass unique messages. The color codes could also determine the kind of airport these beacons serve.

Red lights are suitable for use at night especially in urban areas due to their high visibility. Their intensity makes them easy for the pilot to notice from above. The white xenon flashers come in handy for rural areas or urban centers during the day. However, their use in urban areas is limited to low density population areas since they easily merge with background lighting in densely populated places and become hard to spot. This increases the risk of collision in planes.

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.

Aviation signal beacons should be installed by properly trained and experienced technicians. Only professionals can create proper designs of these lights that will match the set standards. Such professionals will also guide their clients in acquisition and installation of the beacons so as to comply fully with FAA regulations.

The poles or masts on which these lights are installed should also be painted with aircraft warning paints. This is red and white paint applied to any mast above 200 feet tall, or any antenna tower near the airports. However, the requirement may vary from state to state.

It is important to note that such lights are helpful to flight passengers too. Since the signal lights are highly visible, they will help reassure passengers. Flying over tall obstacles could be greatly scary. This means that pilots as well as passengers require something to indicate possible risky objects for them to feel at ease. In this case, aircraft signal lights come in handy in making flying a safe and comfortable experience.




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