SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-takeoff-hold-lights

What do illuminated red Takeoff Hold Lights mean to an airplane in takeoff position?

It is unsafe to take off.

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  1. Takeoff clearance is confirmed
  2. Taxi back immediately
  3. It is unsafe to take off ✔

Why: Red THLs warn that the runway is occupied or about to be occupied. Stop if feasible, remain stopped, and resolve any conflicting clearance with ATC.

Huh, didn't know that: THLs are two rows of red in-pavement lights along the runway centerline area.

The dad joke
The takeoff lights said hold it, so the airplane kept its runway reservation.
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References

Answer: It is unsafe to take off. Red THLs warn that the runway is occupied or about to be occupied. Stop if feasible, remain stopped, and resolve any conflicting clearance with ATC.

  1. FAA AIM 2-1-6, Takeoff Hold Lights www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/aim_html/chap2_section_1.html
    it is unsafe to takeoff because the runway is occupied
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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