How many lights are used in the NATO T pattern?

• A. Four lights
• B. Five lights
• C. Six lights
• D. Three lights

Answer: (B)

The NATO T pattern uses five lights arranged to form a clear T shape that marks a helicopter landing zone for night operations. It consists of a vertical stem of three lights and a top crossbar of two lights, giving pilots an immediate visual cue for both the approach direction and the touchdown area. This specific five-light arrangement provides a distinct silhouette that’s easy to recognize from the cockpit, whereas fewer lights wouldn’t create the recognizable T, and more lights would add unnecessary clutter.