From ARRL Hudson Division's Loop
FCC ISSUES SECOND TOWER WARNING
The FCC has issued a second warning to owners of radio
antenna structures after an ambulance helicopter nearly hit an
unlit radio tower that was under construction near Arcadia,
Florida. This was the second similar incident in less then a
month. This comes at a time when the Commission is beefing up
enforcement in all areas, and forcing owners of antenna
structures to comply strictly with FCC antenna tower lighting and
marking rules.
The latest incident occurred on December 21, when the
helicopter, on an urgent nighttime emergency call, was forced to
alter its approach pattern when the pilot unexpectedly
encountered a nearby unlit 500 foot antenna structure that
was under construction without temporary warning lights. After
being notified of this event by the helicopter company, agents of
the FCC's Tampa Office investigated, confirmed that the tower was
unlit, and took steps to ensure that the tower was promptly lit
and that the FAA was notified. The FCC's Compliance and
Information Bureau is continuing its investigation of the matter.
The FCC issued its first warning to radio antenna structure
owners on November 30, 1998, after a similar incident occurred
near Muleshoe, Texas. CIB Bureau Chief Richard D Lee said, "We
will not tolerate non-compliance with FCC Rules. We intend to
enforce these safety of life requirements to the fullest."
-- FCC Notice/This Week in Amateur Radio
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