Friday, February 27, 2015

The Need For 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.

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.

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.




About the Author:



No comments: