aircraft traffic signal
Lights or other signals directing aircraft on the ground, usually near taxiways, distinct from approach landing lights.
Aircraft traffic signals are lights, mechanical flags, audio speakers, or other forms of signage which display or broadcast static signals or dynamically changing commands to aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters, and dirigibles. These are usually placed on or around taxiways and are intended to be seen by aircraft on the ground.
This should not be confused with an air traffic control post, which is a manned tower or other structure where professional human controllers relay directions to pilots. This is also different from landing lights, which are guideposts meant to be seen from the air for routing purposes.
The signal is intended for the pilot of an aircraft on the ground. Static indications and changing commands are both possible, while a staffed control post is the separate place from which a controller directs traffic.
Related definitions
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foot traffic signal
Signals displaying or broadcasting changing commands to pedestrians, commonly at road intersections. -
rail traffic signal
Automated or remotely controlled signals displaying or broadcasting changing commands to trains and other rail traffic. -
ship traffic signal
Signals displaying or broadcasting changing commands to ships, boats, and other waterborne traffic. -
tram traffic signal
Signals displaying or broadcasting changing commands to trams, streetcars, and other light rail traffic. -
vehicle traffic signal
Signals displaying or broadcasting changing commands to road vehicles, commonly through colored lights.