Light signals

Light Communications

Air Traffic Control (ATC) uses light signals to communicate with aircraft both in flight and on the ground. In flight, ATC uses flashing red lights to indicate a warning or prohibition, and a steady green light to signal clearance for takeoff or landing. On the ground, ATC uses red flashing lights to indicate stop and green flashing lights to indicate taxi and takeoff clearance. These signals are critical for ensuring safe and efficient air traffic operations, and pilots must be able to quickly interpret and respond to them. The table below contains the signals in force.

Light signals

On Ground

Light Mode

In Flight

Authorised to Take Off
if pilot is satisfied that no collision risk exists

Green Static

Authorised to land
if pilot is satisfied that no collision risk exists

Authorised to taxi
if pilot is satisfied that no collision risk exists

Green flashing

Return for landing

Stop

Red Static

Give way to other aircraft
Continue circling

Taxi clear
of landing area in use

Red Flashing

Do not land
Aerodrome unsafe

Return to starting point
on aerodrome

White Flashing

PAGE INFO

Updated

REFERENCE

Source: CASR 91 MOS Table 2.04 (1)