FAA Ground School Practice Test

What does a flashing white light mean when observed from another aircraft during flight?

1. The aircraft is about to land.

2. The aircraft is turning left.

3. The aircraft is a military aircraft.

4. The aircraft is a small plane performing maneuvers.

The correct answer is: The aircraft is about to land.

A flashing white light observed from another aircraft during flight indicates that the aircraft is a small plane performing maneuvers. This signal is used to communicate important information to pilots in the vicinity, typically indicating that the aircraft may not be following a conventional traffic pattern and is engaging in aerobatic or unusual flight activities. In contrast, the other options are not associated with the specific signal of a flashing white light. For example, aircraft about to land would typically be using a different set of lights or signals, such as steady white or red lights. Similarly, a left turn is indicated with other visual markers, and military aircraft usually have specific identification protocols. Thus, the presence of a flashing white light is directly linked to a small aircraft performing maneuvers and serves as a situational awareness tool for other pilots in the area.