Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) Practice Exam

What does a steady red spotlight from the Air Traffic Control Tower indicate?

1. signals aircraft that are taxing onto runways

2. signals the other ATC Towers about a power outage

3. signals GSE drivers to stop movement

4. signals aircraft to stop movement

The correct answer is: signals GSE drivers to stop movement

The correct understanding of a steady red spotlight from the Air Traffic Control Tower is that it signals aircraft to stop movement. In aviation operations, a steady red light indicates to pilots that they need to immediately stop what they are doing, whether they are on the ground or in the air. This signal is crucial for maintaining safety, especially in busy airspace or when there are potential conflicts with other aircraft or ground operations. Choices that may seem plausible, such as signaling GSE drivers (Ground Support Equipment), are not the primary intent of a steady red spotlight from the ATC Tower. While ground operations must adhere to the signals provided by ATC for safety and coordination, the specific signal of a steady red light is universally understood as a command for stopping movement of aircraft.