What is the role of obstruction lighting near airports?

• A. To guide ground vehicles on airfields
• B. To illuminate runways during daylight
• C. To reduce radar clutter
• D. To warn pilots of tall structures and obstructions, especially at night or in poor visibility

Answer: (D)

Obstruction lighting near airports is there to warn pilots of tall structures and other hazards in the airspace, especially when visibility is limited at night or in bad weather. These lights make hazards like towers and cranes conspicuous from a distance, helping pilots maintain safe clearance during takeoff, approach, and overflight. Regulations require such lights on structures that penetrate protected airspace, so the pilot can spot them early and avoid them. This function is distinct from ground vehicle guidance, daylight runway illumination, or attempts to reduce radar clutter, which is not the purpose of obstruction lights.