Medium Intensity Obstruction Light
Flashing white or red, or steady red, for taller or more extensive structures.
View Details Obstruction & Identification Lighting
Low Intensity Obstruction Light (Type A/B)
Visual indication of structures that may present an aviation obstacle
Low-intensity obstruction lights are steady-burning red lights that mark less extensive structures at night, typically where the height above surrounding ground is below about 45 m (150 ft). Type A and Type B differ in minimum intensity; selection follows structure height, location, environment and aviation authority criteria.
Supplied by Precision AGL Solutions
Product Overview
Low Intensity Obstruction Light (Type A/B)
What It Is
Low-intensity obstruction lights provide visual indication of structures that may present an aviation obstacle. They are used on buildings, towers, masts, small structures and other installations where the approved aeronautical study requires low-intensity lighting.
Under ICAO Annex 14 both Type A and Type B are fixed (steady-burning) red lights. They are night-time identification lights; day marking, where required, is by paint or markers, and flashing or higher-intensity lighting is covered by the Medium and High Intensity pages.
How We Supply It
Precision AGL Solutions supplies low-intensity obstruction lighting for new installations, replacement projects, obstruction-lighting upgrades and aviation safety applications.
The light provides steady-burning red output and may be installed standalone or as one level of a coordinated obstruction-lighting system. Optical, electrical and mechanical configuration are selected to the project.
Applications
Where Low-Intensity Lights Are Used
Buildings & rooftopsBuildings and rooftop structures.
Communication towersCommunication and transmission towers.
Antenna mastsAntenna and telecommunications masts.
Utility structuresUtility and infrastructure structures.
Small towers & polesSmall towers and poles.
Industrial structuresIndustrial structures.
Temporary or permanentTemporary or permanent aviation-obstruction installations.
Low-intensity identificationStructures requiring low-intensity visual identification.
Replacement & modernizationModernization of existing obstruction lights.
The final arrangement should be established from the approved aviation lighting assessment, structure characteristics and applicable regulatory requirements.
Type A / Type B Configuration
Classification Depends on Authority and Structure
| Type | Colour & Mode | Minimum Peak Intensity | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-intensity Type A (ICAO) | Red, fixed (steady) | 10 cd | Less extensive objects below about 45 m |
| Low-intensity Type B (ICAO) | Red, fixed (steady) | 32 cd | Where Type A would be inadequate or earlier warning is needed |
| FAA L-810 | Red, steady-burning | 32.5 cd | FAA-style low-intensity marking of structures |
Values are the ICAO Annex 14 and FAA minimums and are shown for orientation only. Confirm against the edition and authority that apply to your project.
Type A or Type B May Be Selected By
- Structure height and extent
- Structure location and surroundings
- Required minimum intensity (Type A or Type B)
- Need for earlier special warning
- Number and location of lighting levels
- Visibility from all directions (azimuth)
- Applicable obstruction-lighting criteria
Confirm Against the Specification
Obstruction-light classifications and operating requirements depend on the applicable aviation authority and the characteristics of the structure.
The required configuration should always be confirmed against the approved project specification and current applicable aviation requirements.
Low-intensity Type C and Type D lights are flashing lights for vehicles and are not covered by this product page.
Key Features
What the Product Category Offers
- Low-intensity aviation obstruction lighting
- Suitable for buildings, towers, masts and small structures
- Steady-burning red output (fixed light)
- Aviation-appropriate optical output
- Compact construction for structure-mounted applications
- LED or other approved light-source configurations where applicable
- Suitable for new installations and replacement projects
- Project-specific mounting arrangements
- Outdoor environmental construction
- Electrical and mechanical configurations selected according to application
- Available for integration into larger obstruction-lighting systems
Typical Technical Data
Confirm Parameters Against the Selected Model
| Parameter | Typical Specification |
|---|---|
| Light Type | Low-intensity obstruction light |
| Configuration | Type A or Type B, as applicable |
| Light Source | LED or approved source, configuration dependent |
| Light Colour | Aviation red (ICAO Annex 14 Appendix 1 chromaticity) |
| Operation | Steady-burning (fixed) |
| Minimum Intensity | Type A: 10 cd; Type B: 32 cd; FAA L-810: 32.5 cd (confirm against selected model) |
| Power Supply | Configuration dependent |
| Power Consumption | Model dependent |
| Mounting | Structure, pole, mast or project-specific mounting |
| Dimensions | Model dependent |
| Environmental Protection | Outdoor-rated construction, configuration dependent |
| Operating Temperature | Model dependent |
| Cable / Connection | Project-specific electrical interface |
| Control | Standalone or integrated control, where applicable |
Exact luminous intensity, intensity distribution, electrical ratings, dimensions and environmental performance should be confirmed against the selected model and project requirements.
Light Source & Optical Performance
Consistent Output, Reduced Maintenance
LED Optical Assembly
Modern low-intensity obstruction lights can use efficient LED light sources to provide consistent optical output with reduced maintenance requirements.
The optical assembly is designed to provide the required visibility from relevant viewing directions while maintaining the characteristics required by the applicable classification.
For projects with specific photometric requirements, Precision AGL Solutions can provide product documentation and technical data for engineering review.
Optical Selection May Include
- Required luminous intensity
- Horizontal coverage
- Vertical light distribution
- Red colour chromaticity
- Steady-burning output
- Night-time visibility
- Environmental operating conditions
Operating Mode
Steady-Burning Red Output
Operating Arrangement Is Set By
- Applicable aviation regulations
- Structure height and classification
- Number of lights at each level
- Coordination with other obstruction lights on the structure
- Night operation and photocell or timer control
- Project control and monitoring philosophy
Steady, Not Flashing
Low-intensity Type A and Type B lights are fixed lights and should not flash. A flashing red light, for example on medium-intensity Type B, is a different product category.
Where a structure needs flashing or higher-intensity lighting, select from the Medium or High Intensity obstruction light pages and do not mix lighting types on one level without the approved lighting plan.
Mounting Arrangements
Configured for a Variety of Structures
Typical Mounting Applications
- Horizontal structural members
- Vertical poles
- Tower platforms
- Rooftop structures
- Mast assemblies
- Equipment platforms
- Dedicated mounting brackets
Stable, Correctly Oriented
Mounting hardware should provide stable positioning and maintain the required optical orientation throughout the operating life of the installation.
Project-specific brackets, adapters or fixing arrangements can be considered where the standard mounting interface does not directly match the structure.
Electrical Configuration
Matched to Supply and Control
Electrical Considerations
- Supply voltage
- AC or DC operation
- Power consumption
- Surge protection
- Cable entry
- Connector arrangement
- Local switching
- Photocell or automatic day/night control
- Remote monitoring or alarm interfaces where required
Coordination
The obstruction light can be selected to suit the available electrical supply and the control arrangement specified for the project.
The final electrical configuration should be coordinated with the obstruction-lighting control system and site power infrastructure.
Day/Night & Automatic Control
Lighting That Follows Ambient Conditions
Obstruction LightSteady-burning red output
Local Control / PhotocellChanges or enables lighting by ambient conditions
Power SupplySite supply, AC or DC
Monitoring SystemStatus, fault reporting, supervision
Depending on the project, additional control or monitoring equipment may provide status indication, fault reporting or centralized supervision.
Installation Considerations
Correct Installation Maintains Visibility
Before Installation, Confirm
- Approved obstruction-lighting layout
- Required lighting levels and spacing of intermediate levels
- Number of lights per level so the structure is visible from every direction
- Light orientation
- Mounting height
- Structure geometry
- Cable routing
- Electrical supply
- Earthing and surge protection
- Accessibility for maintenance
- Environmental exposure
- Required control and monitoring interfaces
Optical Coverage
Correct installation is essential to maintain the intended visibility and reliability of obstruction lighting.
Lights should be installed so that structural elements do not unnecessarily obstruct the intended optical coverage. The top light should be as close to the highest point as practicable, with intermediate levels arranged as required by the approved lighting plan.
Environmental Performance
Built for Outdoor Exposure
Possible Exposure
- Rain and moisture
- Dust and airborne contamination
- Solar radiation
- Temperature variation
- Wind
- Vibration
- Coastal or industrial atmospheres
Site Environment
The selected enclosure, sealing and materials should be appropriate for the site environment.
For severe environmental locations, material selection and corrosion protection should be reviewed during project engineering.
Commissioning
Verify Installation and Operating Characteristics
- Verify mounting position and orientation
- Check electrical connections and supply voltage
- Confirm steady-burning operation with no flicker or flash
- Verify light colour and optical output
- Confirm control or photocell operation where fitted
- Check alarm or monitoring interfaces where applicable
- Inspect cable routing and mechanical fixing
- Record commissioning results for project documentation
Where photometric verification is required, measurements should use appropriate calibrated equipment and follow the applicable project procedure.
Maintenance
Reduced Routine Maintenance, Particularly with LED
Recommended Activities
- Visual inspection of the light
- Cleaning of the optical window
- Checking red colour and output have not degraded
- Checking mounting hardware
- Inspection of cable entries and connectors
- Checking for water ingress or enclosure damage
- Verification of operating status
- Checking control and monitoring equipment
- Replacement of damaged components
- Periodic functional testing
Maintenance Intervals
Intervals should be established according to the installation environment, manufacturer recommendations and applicable airport maintenance procedures.
Troubleshooting
Condition, Cause and Recommended Check
| Condition | Possible Cause | Recommended Check |
|---|---|---|
| Light not operating | Loss of power or control fault | Check supply, protection and control circuit |
| Reduced visibility | Dirty optical window or optical degradation | Inspect and clean optical surface |
| Incorrect operation | Control or configuration issue | Verify operating mode and control settings |
| Intermittent operation | Electrical connection or supply issue | Inspect terminals, connectors and cable |
| Light flickers or flashes unexpectedly | Loose connection, supply fault or wrong configuration | Check terminals, supply stability and the configured operating mode |
| Moisture inside enclosure | Seal or cable-entry problem | Inspect enclosure and sealing system |
| Mechanical movement | Loose mounting | Inspect and secure mounting hardware |
Replacement & Retrofit
Modernize Without Losing the Approved Arrangement
Retrofit Selection Should Consider
- Existing mounting arrangement
- Existing supply voltage
- Cable and connector configuration
- Required light classification
- Optical performance
- Existing control system
- Structure geometry
- Regulatory requirements
Not by Dimensions Alone
Low-intensity obstruction lights can be used for replacement and retrofit where existing equipment requires modernization, improved reliability or continued support.
A replacement should not be selected solely by physical dimensions. The optical and operational requirements of the approved obstruction-lighting arrangement must also be maintained.
Procurement Checklist
Information to Provide with Your Request
- Structure type
- Structure height
- Structure location
- Applicable aviation authority or project specification
- Required Type A or Type B classification
- Operating mode (steady-burning for Type A/B)
- Required light colour (red)
- Quantity of lights
- Mounting arrangement
- Available power supply
- Existing control system
- Environmental conditions
- Replacement or new-installation status
This allows the light to be selected according to the complete installation rather than as a standalone component.
Standards & References
Applicable Requirements Take Precedence
Principal References
- ICAO Annex 14 Vol. I, Chapter 6 (obstacle lighting, Tables 6-1 and 6-2) and Appendix 1 (colours)
- ICAO Doc 9157 Aerodrome Design Manual, Part 4 (Visual Aids)
- FAA AC 70/7460-1 (obstruction marking and lighting)
- FAA AC 150/5345-43J (obstruction lighting equipment, L-810)
- DGCA India CAR Section 4 and AAI / NOC conditions
Use the edition current at the time of your project.
Jurisdiction-Dependent
Obstruction-lighting requirements vary according to jurisdiction, structure type, location and aviation authority.
The product and installation should be reviewed against the applicable aviation obstruction-lighting requirements, approved project documentation and current authority requirements.
Specific Regulations
Where a project is subject to a specific national aviation regulation, engineering specification or airport standard, those requirements should take precedence during final product selection.
Documentation
Supplied According to Configuration
- Product datasheet
- Technical specifications
- Photometric information
- Mounting details
- Electrical connection information
- Installation instructions
- Maintenance recommendations
- Product drawings
- Compliance documentation, where applicable
Why Precision AGL Solutions
Dependable Visual Guidance and Obstruction Marking
Precision AGL Solutions provides aviation lighting equipment for airport, airfield and aviation-infrastructure projects. Our approach supports both individual equipment supply and coordinated project requirements, including:
- Product selection based on application
- Project-specific technical review
- New and replacement installations
- Obstruction-lighting system integration
- Technical documentation support
- Configuration-based electrical and mounting options
- Support for airport and aviation infrastructure projects
FAQ
Low Intensity Obstruction Light (Type A/B) — Frequently Asked Questions
What is a low-intensity obstruction light?
Low-intensity obstruction lights are steady-burning red lights that mark less extensive structures at night, typically where the height above surrounding ground is below about 45 m (150 ft). They are used on buildings, towers, masts, small structures and other installations where the approved aeronautical study requires low-intensity lighting. They are night-time identification lights, and any day marking is by paint or markers.
Where are low-intensity obstruction lights used?
Typical uses are buildings and rooftop structures, communication and transmission towers, antenna and telecommunications masts, utility and infrastructure structures, small towers and poles, industrial structures, and temporary or permanent aviation-obstruction installations. They can be installed standalone or as one level of a coordinated obstruction-lighting system, and the final arrangement should come from the approved aviation lighting assessment and applicable regulatory requirements.
What is the difference between Type A and Type B?
Under ICAO Annex 14 both are fixed (steady-burning) red lights and differ in minimum peak intensity: Type A is 10 cd and Type B is 32 cd. Type A is for less extensive objects below about 45 m, while Type B is used where Type A would be inadequate or an earlier warning is needed. The FAA L-810 steady-burning red light has a 32.5 cd minimum. These are minimums for orientation, so confirm them against the edition and authority that apply.
Do Type A and Type B lights flash?
No. They are fixed lights and should not flash. A flashing red light, for example on medium-intensity Type B, is a different product category, and low-intensity Type C and Type D lights are flashing lights for vehicles and are not covered here. Where a structure needs flashing or higher-intensity lighting, select from the medium or high intensity pages and do not mix lighting types on one level without the approved lighting plan.
How do I choose between Type A and Type B?
The choice follows structure height and extent, location and surroundings, the required minimum intensity, the need for earlier special warning, the number and location of lighting levels, visibility from all directions and the applicable obstruction-lighting criteria. Obstruction-light classifications depend on the aviation authority and the structure, so confirm the configuration against the approved project specification.
Where should the lights be placed on a structure?
Follow the approved obstruction-lighting layout, including the required lighting levels and the spacing of intermediate levels. The top light should be as close to the highest point as practicable, and the number of lights per level should let the structure be seen from every direction. Install so that structural elements do not unnecessarily obstruct the optical coverage.
What electrical and control options are available?
The electrical configuration is selected to suit the site supply and control arrangement, covering supply voltage, AC or DC operation, surge protection, cable entry, connector arrangement, local switching, photocell or automatic day/night control, and remote monitoring or alarm interfaces where required. The final configuration should be coordinated with the obstruction-lighting control system and site power infrastructure.
How is a low-intensity light commissioned?
Verify the mounting position and orientation, electrical connections and supply voltage, and confirm steady-burning operation with no flicker or flash. Check the light colour and optical output, photocell or control operation where fitted, and alarm or monitoring interfaces where applicable, then record the results. Where photometric verification is required, use calibrated equipment and follow the project procedure.
What maintenance and troubleshooting does it need?
Routine work includes cleaning the optical window, checking that red colour and output have not degraded, and inspecting mounting hardware, cable entries and enclosure seals, with periodic functional testing. A light that is not operating points to a supply, protection or control fault, reduced visibility to a dirty optical window, flicker to a loose connection or wrong configuration, and moisture inside the enclosure to a seal or cable-entry problem.
Which standards apply to low-intensity obstruction lights?
References include ICAO Annex 14 Volume I Chapter 6 (obstacle lighting, Tables 6-1 and 6-2) and Appendix 1 for colours, ICAO Doc 9157 Part 4, FAA AC 70/7460-1 and AC 150/5345-43J (L-810), and DGCA India CAR Section 4 with AAI and NOC conditions. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, structure and authority, and specific national regulations take precedence in final selection.
What should be provided when requesting low-intensity obstruction lights?
Provide the structure type, height and location, the applicable aviation authority or project specification, the required Type A or Type B classification, the operating mode and colour, the quantity, the mounting arrangement, the available power supply, the existing control system, the environmental conditions and whether it is a new or replacement installation. For replacements, do not select by physical dimensions alone, because the optical and operational requirements of the approved arrangement must be maintained.
Procurement Information for Indian Projects
Indian public tenders commonly ask for the documents below. State which ones your tender requires when you send the enquiry, so they are covered in the quotation.
- Manufacturer / OEM authorisation
- Country of origin and local-content declaration (for Make in India purchase preference)
- Type-test and routine-test certificates, and the FAA / ICAO / IEC compliance documents named in the specification
- Datasheets, drawings and installation instructions
- Warranty, delivery period and spares support
- GeM catalogue or tender-portal requirements, where applicable
Request Obstruction-Lighting Selection
Need to identify the correct obstruction light for a building, tower, mast or other aviation obstacle? Send us the structure height, location, required Type A/B classification, operating mode, power supply and applicable project specification. We can review the application and recommend the appropriate Low Intensity Obstruction Light configuration, including optical characteristics, mounting arrangement and electrical interface.
Request obstruction-lighting selection and technical documentation from Precision AGL Solutions.
- Emailprecisionaglsolutions@gmail.com
- Websiterahulsharmaagl.in
- LinkedInPrecision AGL Solutions
- Phone+91 98214 96412
Engineering Note
Obstruction-lighting classification, intensity, number of levels and installation arrangement are application- and authority-dependent. Exact product parameters should be confirmed against the approved aviation lighting assessment and the current requirements applicable to the project before procurement or installation. Type A and Type B are steady-burning red lights; flashing or white lighting belongs to the medium- and high-intensity categories.
Product Disclaimer
Product availability, configuration, dimensions, electrical characteristics, photometric performance, certifications and compliance status depend on the selected manufacturer and project specification. The technical values published on this page should not be treated as a substitute for the manufacturer's current approved Technical Data Sheet.
Final selection shall be based on the approved project specification, applicable aviation standards, authority requirements, manufacturer documentation and site conditions. Use of this page is also subject to the Legal Notice, Disclaimer & Terms of Use.
Standards and editions referenced on this site are listed on the Standards Reference page.