Which light signal should a pilot respond to by returning for landing when in flight?

• A. A steady Red light
• B. A red and green alternating light
• C. A white light
• D. A flashing Green light

Answer: (D)

In flight, pilots rely on visual signals from the control tower when radio communication isn’t available. A flashing green light is the signal that tells the pilot to return for landing. When you see this, you should head toward the airport and prepare to land, following normal approach procedures once you’re established.

The other signals don’t indicate returning to land: a steady red light means something like “do not land/continue circling” or “give way,” a red and green alternating signal isn’t a standard flight instruction, and a white light signal isn’t used to direct in-flight landing. So the flashing green light is the one that tells you to come back and land.