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Some Details About 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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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