Which signaling device is specified for night guidance of aircraft by taxi signalmen?

Which signaling device is specified for night guidance of aircraft by taxi signalmen?

• A. Illuminating wands
• B. Flares
• C. Glow sticks
• D. Signal flags

Answer: (A)

Night guidance of aircraft by taxi signalmen requires a hand-held signaling device that is bright, clearly visible in darkness, and easy to control. Illuminating wands meet this need because they provide a strong, visible signal that can be waved or pointed to convey precise taxi instructions from the signalman to the pilot, even in low light. Flares are hazardous on a crowded airfield—hot and smoky with unpredictable movement—so they’re not suitable for routine ground guidance. Glow sticks don’t offer enough brightness or control for clear, rapid signals, and signal flags rely on daylight visibility, making them ineffective at night.

Night guidance of aircraft by taxi signalmen requires a hand-held signaling device that is bright, clearly visible in darkness, and easy to control. Illuminating wands meet this need because they provide a strong, visible signal that can be waved or pointed to convey precise taxi instructions from the signalman to the pilot, even in low light. Flares are hazardous on a crowded airfield—hot and smoky with unpredictable movement—so they’re not suitable for routine ground guidance. Glow sticks don’t offer enough brightness or control for clear, rapid signals, and signal flags rely on daylight visibility, making them ineffective at night.