The aerodrome beacon is a critical navigational aid designed to ensure safe aircraft operations during night-time conditions or in scenarios where visual navigation is challenging. It is typically installed on or adjacent to the aerodrome, particularly in areas with low ambient lighting. This beacon is especially useful in three main scenarios: when aircraft primarily navigate by visual references, when low visibility conditions are common, or when the aerodrome is hard to locate from the air due to light pollution or complex terrain.
Built in compliance with ICAO Annex 14 (2013, 6th Edition), specifically section 5.3.3 concerning Aeronautical and Aerodrome Beacons, this beacon features an effective luminous intensity exceeding 2,000 candela. It emits a white light with a flash sequence of 20–30 flashes per minute, offering 360° horizontal coverage and a 5° vertical beam angle. These optical characteristics make it highly visible and suitable for a wide range of approach scenarios.
The beacon is engineered using high-performance LED technology, eliminating the need for additional external controllers. It includes an integrated infrared output at 850nm, enabling compatibility with night vision goggles (NVG) and supporting operations in tactical or military environments. Housed in a marine-grade, C5M-high aluminium body with a glass cover, the unit is built for longevity and resilience against harsh environmental conditions. It has a height of just 408mm and weighs only 14kg, making it compact and easy to install.
Electrical specifications include a wide operating voltage range from 90 to 265VAC, with an average power consumption of less than 15 watts. It supports outdoor-rated cabling, including power lines (L-N-PE: 3x1.5mm² or 3x2.5mm²) and optional control lines (up to 5x2.5mm²). The beacon is protected to IP66 standards, ensuring resistance to dust and strong jets of water, and it operates reliably in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +55°C.
With a five-year warranty—the longest in the industry—this aerodrome beacon is a reliable and efficient lighting solution that meets international aviation standards and provides excellent performance across diverse operational environments.
https://www.obelux.com/en/solutions/airfield-ground-lighting/products/icao-aerodrome-beacon
