The Federal Communications Commission ("FCC" or "Commission") issued a Public Notice announcing changes in the procedures for reporting tower light outages to the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA"). Under Section 17.47 of the Commission's Rules, the owner of any antenna structure registered with the Commission and assigned lighting specifications must (a) check antenna lights once every 24 hours by observing the lights or properly maintained indicators, or by maintaining an alarm system designed to detect light outages, and (b) thoroughly inspect all control devices, indicators and alarm systems associated with antenna lights at least once every 3 months. In addition, Section 17.48 requires that owners of such structures immediately report any antenna light outage not remedied within 30 minutes to the nearest FAA Flight Service Station or office. Light outages that cannot be repaired within 15 days must be re-reported to the appropriate FAA Flight Service Station. The FAA Flight Service Station must also be notified once repairs are complete.
Under the new reporting procedure, the FAA Flight Service Station will now require that the seven-digit Antenna Structure Registration Number (commonly referred to as "ASR number" or "tower number") be provided when information about the status of a light outage is conveyed to FAA personnel. In addition, Section 17.48 requires that the FAA be informed of the condition of the light or lights, the circumstances that caused the light failure, the probable date for restoration of service, the height of the structure (AGL and AMSL if known), and the name, address, and telephone number of the person reporting the outage.
Further information about the location of FAA Flight Service Stations may be obtained at http://www.faa.gov/ats/. The FCC website provides information about antenna registration at http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/antenna.
