FAA Ground School Practice Test

If an aircraft is landing at a lower altitude than another approaching aircraft, which one has the right-of-way?

1. The lower altitude aircraft

2. The higher altitude aircraft

3. The faster aircraft

4. Neither aircraft has a right-of-way

The correct answer is: The lower altitude aircraft

In aviation, the rules regarding right-of-way are designed to ensure safety during different flight maneuvers, especially during approaches and landings. When two aircraft are on the final approach for landing, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right of way. This is because it is in a more controlled descent and is typically closer to the runway, making any course changes or maneuvers from the higher altitude aircraft more complicated. The principle behind this rule is that an aircraft at a lower altitude is typically in a position where it is preparing to land, thereby having established an intent and an operational priority to complete that landing. The higher altitude aircraft must yield to the one below it to avoid any potential conflict, as interrupting the lower aircraft's approach could disrupt its landing sequence and lead to a dangerous situation. In this context, altitude is a critical factor in determining right-of-way, as those who are lower in the airspace must be given priority over those at a higher altitude, reinforcing a safe landing protocol.