Commercial Pilot License (CPL) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Mic-controlled runway lighting is designed to allow pilots to activate and control the intensity of runway lights using the aircraft's microphone. The correct method for achieving maximum brightness involves keying the microphone seven times in quick succession. This sequence is standardized in many regions to ensure consistency and reliability for pilots when they need improved visibility during takeoff, landing, or taxiing.

The reason for using this specific number of key presses is to ensure that there is no ambiguity in the operation. Keying the mic a different number of times may either not activate the lights at all or may cause them to operate at a different brightness level that may not be sufficient for the conditions. Understanding and memorizing this procedure is essential for safe operations, particularly in low-light conditions or adverse weather.