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.

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.

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 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.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment