FAA Ground School Practice Test

An alternating red and green light signal directed from the control tower to an aircraft in flight signifies that the pilot should:

1. Request immediate landing clearance

2. Exercise extreme caution

3. Begin circling the airport

4. Prepare for landing

The correct answer is: Exercise extreme caution

The alternating red and green light signal from the control tower is a specific communication method used to convey important safety information to pilots. When a pilot sees this light signal, it is a warning indicating that extreme caution is necessary. This signal means that the aircraft is operating in an area where there could be potential hazards, and the pilot should be alert and ready to respond appropriately to any changing conditions or instructions from air traffic control. The significance of this signal is rooted in the need for safety, encouraging pilots to ensure they are maintaining awareness of their surroundings, potential traffic, and any directives that may soon be issued by air traffic control. In contrast, other responses like requesting immediate landing clearance or preparing to land would not be appropriate in this situation, as the alternating lights do not specifically indicate that it is safe or permissible to land or circle the airport. The focus of this signal is clearly on exercising caution rather than taking immediate action related to landing or maneuvering patterns.