Thursday, February 26, 2015

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.

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.

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.

Since there is great growth in technology, sky-rocket buildings and structures are becoming more common. This means there is expected rise on the number of aircraft signal lights around the world. Of importance is to make sure they are properly installed to aid navigation. This is also one way for stakeholders to comply with flying safety standards around the world.

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 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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