What is an Aerodrome Beacon?

Jan 25, 2023 M.Durgut 1376 Views Aerodrome Beacon, Airport Beacon

An aerodrome beacon is a light beacon installed at an airport or airfield to provide visual guidance to pilots approaching the airport. It typically consists of a rotating or flashing light that is visible from a distance, and is usually located near the airport’s control tower or on the airport’s perimeter. It may be operated by the airport authority or a separate organization.

The beacon may also be accompanied by other navigation aids such as a VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) transmitter or a non-directional beacon (NDB) that provides radio navigation information to pilots. These navigation aids work in conjunction with the aerodrome beacon to provide pilots with a comprehensive set of information for approaching and landing at an airport.

Guiding Pilots in Low Visibility

Imagine flying at night or in foggy weather. Spotting an airport can be tricky. Aerodrome beacons come to the rescue! Their powerful, flashing lights help pilots easily identify the airport’s location from a distance, ensuring a safe approach.

Color Codes for Different Facilities

The color of the flashing light actually tells pilots what kind of facility they’re approaching:

Flashing white and green: Civilian land airport (most common)
Flashing white and yellow: Water airport (for seaplanes)
Flashing green (or white and green): Heliport (for helicopters) – Green alone is also used for some heliports.
Two white flashes followed by green: Military airport