Book 13, Question 137
Why Do Airplanes and Boats Have Red and Green Lights?
Planes and boats have a red light on the left side and a green light on the right side! In the dark, the colors tell you which way the vehicle is going. They also have a white light at the back.
More fun facts
- Airplane lights are set up much like the lights on boats and ships.
- An airplane has a red light on its left wingtip, a green light on its right wingtip, and a white light on its tail.
- These lights help pilots tell which way another airplane is moving at night.
- If a pilot sees the red light on the left and the green on the right, the other airplane is flying the same way.
- If the red light is on the right and the green on the left, the other airplane could be heading toward them.
- Flashing anti-collision lights blink for less than a second, so they do not spoil a pilot's night vision.
Sources: faa.gov
Questions kids ask
Why do pilots turn on landing lights near airports?
Landing lights help other pilots see the airplane, so pilots are asked to use them near airports, both day and night.