FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is indicated by a red sign at an airport?

1. Runway entry point

2. Mandatory instruction

3. Taxiway end point

4. Location reference

The correct answer is: Mandatory instruction

A red sign at an airport is specifically designed to convey mandatory instructions to pilots and ground personnel. These signs are crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with airport regulations, as they indicate actions that must be followed without exception. For example, a red sign may indicate the need to stop, yield, or refrain from entering a particular area, such as a runway. The use of color coding in airport signage serves to provide immediate recognition of the type of information being presented. In this case, the color red is universally associated with warnings and prohibitions, making it essential for maintaining order and safety on the airfield. Understanding this helps pilots and ground control staff quickly interpret the signs while navigating the airport environment, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents or miscommunication. The other options represent different aspects of airport signage but do not convey the same level of urgency or mandatory compliance as a red sign indicates. Each of these other sign types serves a distinct purpose in the broader context of airfield operations, but red signs specifically focus on mandatory action.