FAA Ground School Practice Test

Which light signal from the control tower indicates that a pilot should taxi?

1. Steady green

2. Flashing green

3. Flashing white

4. Steady red

The correct answer is: Flashing green

The appropriate light signal indicating that a pilot should taxi is a steady green light from the control tower. This signal means that the aircraft is cleared for takeoff or to taxi. A steady green light is universally understood in aviation as permission to proceed, specifically for aircraft to either move from the ramp area to the runway or from the runway into the air. Understanding these light signals is crucial for maintaining safety and effective communication between air traffic control and pilots, especially in situations where radio communications may be complicated or unreliable. In contrast, a flashing green light signifies that the aircraft should return to the starting point on the airport. A flashing white light is typically not used for taxi clearance; instead, it can indicate a transportation signal for vehicles on the airport. A steady red light signals that a pilot must stop, indicating an immediate need for caution or to remain stationary. Understanding these signals helps pilots respond correctly to air traffic control instructions.