FAA Ground School Practice Test

What is indicated by the presence of a steady white light and a flashing red light ahead during a night flight?

1. The other aircraft is ascending.

2. The other aircraft is approaching head-on.

3. The other aircraft is departing diagonally.

4. The other aircraft is circling.

The correct answer is: The other aircraft is approaching head-on.

The presence of a steady white light and a flashing red light ahead during a night flight is indicative of another aircraft approaching head-on. In this scenario, the steady white light typically represents the aircraft's navigation light on the tail or wing, while the flashing red light corresponds to the strobe or anti-collision lights used to increase visibility. When two aircraft are on a collision course towards each other, the pilots will perceive these lights in this specific pattern. The flashing red light alerts the pilot to the activity of the other aircraft while the steady white light signifies that it is indeed another aircraft directly ahead. In contrast, the other options do not align with the specific light configuration being described. Understanding the significance of these light signals is crucial for ensuring safe navigation and the ability to make timely evasive maneuvers when necessary.