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Thursday, February 26, 2015

The Need For 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.

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.

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.

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 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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