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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-pilot-controlled-lighting

Keying the mic 7 times within 5 seconds sets pilot-controlled runway lighting to what?

The highest intensity available.

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  1. Lowest intensity
  2. Medium intensity
  3. Highest intensity ✔

Why: Seven clicks within five seconds gives the highest intensity, five clicks gives medium or lower, and three clicks gives the lowest. Starting at seven lets you then turn the lights down.

Huh, didn't know that: At airports without an operating control tower, the CTAF is used to control airport lighting systems whenever possible.

The dad joke
Why did the pilot click the mic seven times? He heard the runway had a lot of lights to turn on.
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References

Answer: Highest intensity. Seven clicks within five seconds gives the highest intensity, five clicks gives medium or lower, and three clicks gives the lowest. Starting at seven lets you then turn the lights down.

  1. FAA AIM 2-1-8, Pilot Control of Airport Lighting www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap2_section_1.html
    7 times within 5 seconds | Highest intensity available
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. FAA AIM 4-1-10, Airport Lighting www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap4_section_1.html
    Whenever possible, the CTAF will be used to control airport lighting systems
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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