SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-position-lights-collision-course

In flight, you see another airplane's red light on your right and green on your left. What does it mean?

It may be on a collision course, heading toward you.

Start playing free

  1. It is flying the same direction as you
  2. It is crossing from left to right
  3. It may be heading toward you ✔

Why: Red is on the left wingtip, green on the right, and white on the tail. If you see red on the right and green on the left, the airplane is facing you and could be on a collision course.

Huh, didn't know that: Seeing red on the left and green on the right means the airplane ahead is flying the same direction as you.

The dad joke
My airplane's left light is red and its right is green. It's ready for the holidays all year.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: It may be heading toward you. Red is on the left wingtip, green on the right, and white on the tail. If you see red on the right and green on the left, the airplane is facing you and could be on a collision course.

  1. Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3C, Chapter 11 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook/12_afh_ch11.pdf
    If red were on the right and green to the left, the airplane could be on a collision course.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesFlying VFR at night, what minimum fuel reserve does an airplane need after the first planned landing?Flying & DronesWhat is required to fly a Part 107 drone within 30 minutes after official sunset?Flying & DronesAt night, Part 107 anti-collision lights must be visible for at least how far?

That's stuff everyone should know.