ATC Light Gun Signals

 

Air Traffic Control (ATC) light gun signals are used to communicate with aircraft when radio communication is not available. These signals can be directed at aircraft in flight or on the ground and consist of different colors and flashing patterns. Here’s what each signal means:

For Aircraft in Flight:-

Steady Green: Cleared to land. This indicates that the aircraft is cleared to land on the runway.Flashing Green: Cleared to approach the airport. This signal is used to indicate that the aircraft is authorized to approach the airport for landing.

Steady Red: Give way to other aircraft and continue circling. This means the aircraft must continue to circle the airport because it is not safe to land.

Flashing Red: Airport unsafe—do not land. The pilot should not attempt to land; the airport is considered unsafe.

Flashing White: This signal is not used for aircraft in flight.

Alternating Red and Green: Exercise extreme caution. This signal is a general warning of danger and advises the pilot to be cautious.

For Aircraft on the Ground:-

Steady Green: Cleared for takeoff. The aircraft is cleared to take off from the runway.

Flashing Green: Cleared to taxi. This indicates that the aircraft is cleared to taxi to the runway or another specified area on the airport.

Steady Red: Stop. The aircraft should come to a complete stop.

Flashing Red: Clear the runway. This signal indicates that the aircraft should vacate the runway or that it is not safe to enter the runway.

Flashing White: Return to starting point on the airport. This directs the pilot to taxi back to the starting point on the airport.

Alternating Red and Green: Exercise extreme caution. Similar to the in-flight signal, it warns of potential danger.

These signals are crucial for ensuring safety and effective communication when radio contact is not possible.