Importance Of An Aviation Warning Beacon

By Olivia Cross


Low flying flights require clear signals of any obstructing objects in their path. Such objects could be tall structures, buildings, broadcast transmission masts and others. Proper marking of these objects with an aviation warning beacon helps prevent collision. This means that flying is a great hazard and very challenging where these signs lack. Installing the beacons is also one way to comply with FAA regulations on air traffic and safety.

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.

Aircraft signal lights come in two main colors. These include the continuously illuminated red lamps used mostly at night. The red lamps could also be designed to turn on and off alternatively every few seconds. The second type are the white xenon discharge flashers. However, with growth in technology, other cheap options of lighting exist. Today, beacons come in various color codes depending on the message or kind of airport they are serving. Such colors include yellow, amber, green as well as blue.

In most cases, the red lights are used at night in urban areas. This is because they are easy to spot them from above. On the other hand, xenon flashers are suitable during day time in rural areas. Though sometimes the white xenon flashers can be found in urban areas, they are not suitable for densely populated places at as they blend with background lighting making them hard to notice. This increases chances of an aircraft accident.

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.

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.

Some states require the masts hosting these lights to be painted in red and white. This aircraft warning paint is also part of safety regulations and is applied to all masts 200 feet tall. Some antenna towers less then 200 feet tall may have such paints especially if they are near the airport.

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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