Question about lights?

[JohnM]

I noticed a while ago when a aircraft was going in for a landing about 30 miles out, the landing lights were on but it looked like they were on strobe's.
Not sure if i described it enough but i know someone has to know what im talking about.
Thanks

 

[ClearedToTakeoff]

Pulsating landing lights?

 

[JohnM]

Sounds like that could be it, I was watching it and the lights would go on then off( repeat )

 

[derg]

Some operators use different lighting configurations depending on altitude and phase of flight as well.

 

[ASpilot2be]

I know atleast some 737-200s have it set up so the landing lights alternate which wing they flash on. Alot of smaller planes seem to be going with a similiar set up. I notice it a lot helicopters do the same thing.

 

[OhioStatePilot]

Check this out: http://preciseflight.com

From my understanding, it increases visibility and increases the life expectancy of the landing light bulbs.

 

[DPApilot]

I saw a southwest 73 coming into MDW when flying traffic earlier this year with that set-up. First time I had seen it on anything bigger than a Business Jet. I'll tell you, you notice it a lot further out!

 

[Patrick]

Check this out: http://preciseflight.com

From my understanding, it increases visibility and increases the life expectancy of the landing light bulbs.

Great for visibility, not so great for the incandescent bulbs most of these lights use. Just like turning the kitchen light on and off repeatedly isn't good for bulb longevity, neither is this. Of course, the benefits of being more visible to other aircraft is certainly worth the cost of bulb life.

 

[JohnM]

All I know is it was on a few different aircraft ( commercial ) The lights would go on,dim to almost off then back on and repeat. I heard it was for visibility but was unsure, thank you for all the answers!