What is PAPI and what information does it convey?

• A. Medium-Intensity Approach Lighting System with Runway Alignment; supports precision approach visibility.
• B. Visual Approach Slope Indicator; older two-bar system; generally less precise than PAPI.
• C. Precision Approach Path Indicator; color-coded lights indicate deviations from the ideal glide path.
• D. NOTAM D; nationwide/global advisories.

Answer: (C)

PAPI stands for Precision Approach Path Indicator. It’s a visual glide-path aid placed beside the runway that uses four lights to give you immediate feedback on your descent angle. Each unit shows red or white light, and the pattern you see tells you whether you’re above, on, or below the ideal glide path (typically around a 3-degree angle). The goal is to stay on the glide path by adjusting descent to match the correct color pattern. This system is more precise than older indicators and complements other approach aids; NOTAMs are notices about conditions, and other lighting systems like a two-bar approach indicator provide different, less precise guidance.