Which nighttime marking pattern is most commonly used for the first aircraft to land?

• A. NATO T
• B. Circular beacon
• C. Inverted Y
• D. Five-light cross pattern

Answer: (C)

Nighttime landing relies on lights that give pilots a quick, unmistakable cue to align with the landing zone. The inverted Y pattern provides a simple, highly visible silhouette that clearly marks the approach path and the landing point. Its three-branch shape creates a strong, easily recognizable cue from various angles and distances, helping the first aircraft establish the correct centerline and descent direction quickly and with less risk of deviation. The two outer legs frame the area, while the stem converges toward the landing point, guiding the pilot along the intended path. Other patterns either aren’t as intuitive for indicating the approach corridor, are more general beacons, or can be mistaken for other ground markings, making the inverted Y the best choice for the first aircraft to land.