Prohibited Landing Marker: Definition, Design and Saudi Compliance

A prohibited landing marker is a high‑visibility painted or illuminated sign that tells pilots a surface is unsafe for touchdown. It must meet GACA and ICAO specifications, be placed where landing is restricted, and remain clearly visible under all lighting conditions.

Understanding the prohibited landing marker

The term "prohibited landing marker" refers to a ground marking that indicates a no‑landing zone. In Saudi Arabia the Civil Aviation Authority (GACA) follows ICAO Annex 14 guidelines. The marker is typically a red‑orange chevron or an X‑shaped pattern, at least 0.6 m high, with reflective tape or LED illumination for night operations. Its purpose is to prevent accidental landings on construction sites, taxiway intersections, or any area that does not meet runway or helipad standards.

When and where to install a prohibited landing marker

A marker is required whenever an area:

• Is temporarily closed for maintenance or resurfacing.
• Serves as a buffer around obstacles such as antenna masts, fuel tanks, or temporary structures.
• Is a part of a vertiport or eVTOL pad that is not intended for regular aircraft use.
• Lies within a heliport’s safety perimeter but is not part of the approved landing surface. In each case the marker must be positioned at least 5 m from the nearest usable surface edge and be visible from a distance of 1 km in daylight.

Design, materials and installation guidelines

The marker’s size, colour and reflectivity are defined by GACA. Use durable, weather‑resistant paint with a minimum of 3 years life expectancy in desert conditions. For night visibility, integrate solar‑powered LED strips that meet the photometric requirements of ICAO Annex 14. Mount the marker on a sturdy steel plate or concrete base to resist wind loads up to 120 km/h.

Northlane Solutions offers a full suite of marking services. Our Heliport Marking Services include site survey, layout planning and installation using approved Airfield Marking Materials. The process typically takes 10‑14 working days from approval to final inspection.

Compliance verification and inspection process

After installation, a qualified inspector must verify:

• Correct colour (red‑orange) and dimensions.
• Proper placement according to the site plan.
• Functionality of any illumination system. The inspector records the findings in a compliance report submitted to GACA. Annual re‑inspection is required for permanent markers; temporary markers need a check before the restricted area reopens.

Choosing a supplier in Saudi Arabia

Northlane Solutions has operated in the Kingdom for over a decade, delivering airfield and heliport projects that meet local and international standards. Our team coordinates with GACA, provides engineering drawings, and handles all logistics for remote sites. We also offer maintenance contracts that include periodic cleaning, repainting and LED replacement, ensuring the marker stays visible throughout its service life.

For projects that combine marking with other airfield infrastructure, consider our integrated solutions such as Helipad & Heliport Solutions and Airfield Ground Lighting. A single point of contact reduces paperwork and shortens delivery timelines.

FAQ

What colour and size must a prohibited landing marker have in Saudi Arabia?

GACA requires a red‑orange background with a minimum height of 0.6 m. The chevron or X pattern must cover at least 0.4 m of the surface and be coated with reflective material for night visibility.

Can I use solar‑powered LEDs on the marker?

Yes, solar‑powered LEDs are accepted provided they meet the photometric intensity specified in ICAO Annex 14. They must be tested for durability in temperatures ranging from -5 °C to 50 °C.

How often does the marker need to be inspected?

Temporary markers are inspected before the area reopens. Permanent markers require an annual inspection and a full compliance check every five years.

What support does Northlane Solutions offer after installation?

We provide a maintenance contract that includes cleaning, repainting, LED battery replacement and a 24‑hour response team for any urgent repairs.