Which statement is true regarding the airport beacon?

Which statement is true regarding the airport beacon?

• A. Airport beacons use solid red lights for civilian airports.
• B. Airport beacons that indicate civilian land airports use alternating white and green lights.
• C. Only military airfields have beacons.
• D. Airport beacons are used mainly for night operations.

Answer: (B)

The statement regarding airport beacons indicating civilian land airports using alternating white and green lights is accurate. This color combination serves a specific purpose in aviation, providing clear visual cues to pilots. The green light signals that it is a civilian airport, while the alternating white light is typically used to enhance visibility against the night sky. Together, this lighting pattern helps pilots identify the airport from a distance, especially when approaching to land or while navigating at night or in low visibility conditions. In contrast, some of the other common misunderstandings involve the different types of beacons and their uses. For instance, while solid red lights may be utilized at some airports, they are not standard for civilian airports. Moreover, not all military airfields are equipped with beacons, as their presence is not exclusive to military operations. Finally, while airport beacons are indeed useful for night operations, they are also valuable during the day in terms of providing orientation and guidance even in favorable visibility conditions. The primary function of beacons is to improve situational awareness for pilots across various operating times.

The statement regarding airport beacons indicating civilian land airports using alternating white and green lights is accurate. This color combination serves a specific purpose in aviation, providing clear visual cues to pilots. The green light signals that it is a civilian airport, while the alternating white light is typically used to enhance visibility against the night sky. Together, this lighting pattern helps pilots identify the airport from a distance, especially when approaching to land or while navigating at night or in low visibility conditions.

In contrast, some of the other common misunderstandings involve the different types of beacons and their uses. For instance, while solid red lights may be utilized at some airports, they are not standard for civilian airports. Moreover, not all military airfields are equipped with beacons, as their presence is not exclusive to military operations. Finally, while airport beacons are indeed useful for night operations, they are also valuable during the day in terms of providing orientation and guidance even in favorable visibility conditions. The primary function of beacons is to improve situational awareness for pilots across various operating times.