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Technology always has had a huge impact on our daily lives. When we hear the terminology ‘technology’, the first thing that triggers our mind is the ‘internet’. But, is it the only technological avenue that we utilise? Definitely not. We all have a lot to learn about technology, besides just the internet. And what really interests me is aeroplanes because without them, a lot couldn’t have been possible including international trade and broadly, globalisation.
Right before flying through the sky, aeroplanes have a list of safety requirements that need to be addressed to keep every situation under control. This category also enters the aircraft’s exterior lighting, which plays a major role in keeping a high degree of safety both through the sky and on the ground. Even so, the main objective of having the exterior lighting in place is high visibility, which is very useful for pilots. With it, they can always have great guidance through the sky – and not only. One thing to remember is that there are various types of airport lighting from Signalight which turn out to be of great help at any moment.
What is airport lighting all about?
This category is built upon different elements. For a full and comprehensive airport lighting system, you need the following:
- Airport controllers
helps with the processes of powering and controlling the runway systems. These can be set up on airports, airfields and nonetheless, aerodromes; - Airport elevated lights
imperative on the runway, as they power up the light to guide pilots with aircraft movements; - Airport guidance systems
improve the guidance towards pilots during all procedures.
Discover more about landing lights
Landing lights play a major role in keeping a high level of safety. If you have ever flown with an aircraft, chances are you have already seen them. These are usually found on the wings, on different parts – either around the nose or on the fuselage. In addition, you can see them from a long distance, which helps with the whole process. With them, pilots are supported during the landing and can provide additional guidance on the take-off.
Learn about the strobes
The second but not the least important type of airport lighting (and not only) is represented by strobes. These are those bright white lights that are extremely visible when the aircraft is flying during the night. In general, their main aim is to help others identify the location of the airplane when the visibility is not that good.
Inform yourself about the anti-collision beacon lights
In terms of Heliport Lighting from Signalight or even runway lighting, it is imperative that you discover more about the anti-collision beacon lights. These are aimed at offering a warning sign, especially when the engine is not working properly. During these moments, the anti-collision beacon lights are turned down, which sends a major sign of alarm to other people as well.
Spot the taxi lights
If you spend some time analysing an aircraft, you should know by now that on the nose gear strut (and not only) there are some taxi lights. Usually, they can be positioned even on each one of the wings. Generally speaking, they help with the taxiway especially during the night time and are amazing when you want to spot the right gate or even the runway. Some of these are part of the portable lighting accessories offered by Signalight that can really make a difference.
For instance, on Boeing 767 you will find two taxi lights, which are also called runway turnoffs. These ones are very well-thought, as they can point directly on your way – either on the left or on the right.
Talk about the colourful position lights
By default, two of the catchiest types of aircraft lights remain the red and the green lights. These ones are positioned on every aircraft and have a major role to play in the aeroplane industry. They are part of the obstruction lighting field, most of which you can find directly on Signalight. However, they are extremely helpful both during the flight through the sky and on the ground. The reason behind is that the red light is always positioned on the left-wing, whereas the green one is on the right.
This strategy has been developed during the time when this idea started to gain roots and helps in reducing the nautical collisions. Not only is this a very smart move, but it can help millions of lives, regardless of the continent over which the aircraft is positioned.
How are all these lights controlled?
Whether talking about heliport lighting or about heliport beacons, the same principle applies to aircraft. The high number of lights are controlled directly by the pilots, as the panel is located right above their heads. You can find the taxi lights and the runway turnoff ones on the left side. Right on the bottom, you should see the landing lights. The usual rule is, the bigger the switch, the higher the importance.
Keeping the landing lights on
One of the most common curiosities to discuss when thinking of aircraft lighting regards the landing lights. In most cases, they are kept turned on by the pilots, even when they fly around. It usually happens a few minutes after they take off and again, a few minutes before landing. As they are bright, they turn into perfect anti-collision lights. When pilots are finding themselves near airports, the landing lights are turned on so that they can receive the right guidance. Not to mention that they are visible from miles away, which makes a great decision every time.
Over to you
Most of the people whether or not they onboard on flights have no idea about airport lighting and their respective functions that ensure a safe takeoff and landing. All the details presented above are meant to create a sense of airport system for the general masses.
