Question

What is the purpose of a flashing red light gun for aircraft?

1) To indicate that the aircraft is on the ground
2) To indicate that the aircraft is in flight
3) To indicate the movement of vehicles
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

A flashing red light gun is used by air traffic control to signal to an aircraft that the airport is unsafe for landing, prompting the pilot to circle the airfield or stay clear. It is not for indicating aircraft on the ground or vehicle movements.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of a flashing red light gun when directed at an aircraft is an important signal used by air traffic control for communication, particularly when radio contact cannot be established with the aircraft. The flashing red light is a signal for an aircraft, either on the ground or in the air, indicating that the airport is unsafe for landing and that the pilot must circle the airfield or stay clear of it. It is not specifically used to indicate that the aircraft is on the ground, nor to indicate the movement of vehicles. Therefore, from the given options, the correct purpose cannot be determined, as the context of when and where the light is used will define its meaning.