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.

Every installation of aircraft warning lights should follow set regulations. For instance, any structure or landscape feature which is 200 feet high should have such beacons installed on it. In some cases, even structures near the airport may require installation of signal lights even if they are less than 200 feet tall. This makes it easy for pilots to note such obstructions in good time and make necessary adjustments. The lights remain at work both during the day and 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.

With development in technology, tall buildings are becoming the norm. This means the need for aircraft waning signs is on the rise too. Of importance is to make sure these beacons are properly installed on any tall building to prevent air plane collisions.

Those installing the lights should have proper training and experience in the field. A professional in this area will come up with designs that fit the set standards. Besides, they will give proper guidance to their clients and comply with the set regulations when erecting the beacons.

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 notable that these lights are not just helpful to pilots but passengers as well. Passengers feel reassured on sight of aircraft signal beacons. Since flying above tall structures is generally scary, such beacons are all the passengers require to feel at ease during their journey. This makes the trip safe and enjoyable for both the pilot and passengers.




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