FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Airspace and AirportsHard
A pilot approaching a nontowered airport at night loses radio communication. As the pilot enters the traffic pattern, the tower (which is normally staffed) flashes a steady red light signal at the aircraft. What does this signal mean?
- ACleared to taxi to the ramp
- BGive way to other aircraft and continue circling
- CAirport is unsafe, do not land
- DCleared to land
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Give way to other aircraft and continue circling
A steady red light signal directed at an aircraft in flight means the pilot should give way to other aircraft and continue circling. A steady green light, not red, would indicate cleared to land, and flashing red would mean the airport is unsafe.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cleared to taxi is a ground signal (steady green) not applicable to an aircraft in flight.
- C. Airport unsafe/do not land is indicated by flashing red, not steady red.
- D. Cleared to land is signaled by a steady green light, not steady red.
ATC Light Gun Signals (In Flight)
When radio communication is lost, control towers use light gun signals to communicate with aircraft; a steady red light in flight means give way and continue circling.
- Steady green in flight = cleared to land
- Flashing green in flight = return for landing (cleared to enter pattern)
- Steady red in flight = give way, continue circling
- Flashing red in flight = airport unsafe, do not land
Memory trick: Steady red, stay ahead—circle instead