What is the purpose of the Position Light?

• A. Show aircraft speed.
• B. Identify squadron insignia.
• C. Determine the relative position of the aircraft at night.
• D. Illuminate runway at night.

Answer: (C)

Position lights serve to reveal where the aircraft is in relation to others, especially at night or in poor visibility. Red on the left wingtip, green on the right, and a white light at the tail indicate orientation, so a pilot can judge whether another airplane is to the left, to the right, or behind. This helps maintain safe separation. They aren’t meant to show speed, aren’t used for displaying insignia, and don’t illuminate the runway—that role belongs to other lighting.