Gas discharge lamp fixtures for aircraft navigation lights

ONE of the objectives of an aircraft exterior lighting system is to assist in the avoidance of aircraft collisions. Lights can do this in clear weather by attracting the attention of an observer, and by presenting visual information which will enable the observer to take evasive action. There is considerable lack of agreement as to the fundamental requirements for an exterior lighting system which will provide the highest level of conspicuity. It is generally agreed that no single direction has a monopoly on collision courses. Red flashing anti-collision beacon lights are now being provided to attract the attention of the observer. Red, green, and white navigation lights provide the observer with the information required to determine the position or orientation of the aircraft, and therefore its direction of travel, so that an avoidance maneuver may be executed.