Abstract: A portable landing aid apparatus is disclosed along with a method for operation in aiding a pilot of a helicopter to land the helicopter in adverse conditions, such as at night or in inclement weather, at a non-traditional landing site. The landing aid apparatus comprises a plurality of light units that are powered by a portable power supply, such as a battery or an emergency vehicle at the site. Each light unit further includes a white strobe light, a steady burn amber lamp, and a green strobe light. The white strobe light is utilized as a day locator, while the green strobe light is utilized as a night locator. The steady burn amber light is used as a landing locator. The white strobe light is utilized during the day as it is highly visible from long distances and does not interfere with the pilot's vision. The green strobe light is used at night as it is highly visible at night and does not interfere with the pilot's night vision.