What is the purpose of an airport beacon and when is it used?

• A. A flashing light beacon to indicate night operations or special conditions.
• B. A beacon to guide aircraft to taxiways during the day.
• C. A static light at the runway end.
• D. A beacon used only on military bases.

Answer: (A)

An airport beacon serves as a conspicuity signal to help pilots locate the field and know it’s active, especially when light is low or visibility is reduced. The flashing, rotating light draws attention from a distance and indicates the airport is available for operations. Because of that, it’s most important during night operations and in weather or lighting conditions that make the airport harder to find. The beacon is not used to guide pilots along taxiways, it’s not a static light, and it isn’t limited to military bases.