In a landing approach, which aircraft has the right-of-way?

In a landing approach, which aircraft has the right-of-way?

• A. The aircraft at the lower altitude
• B. The aircraft at the higher altitude
• C. The faster aircraft
• D. The aircraft with the greater fuel load

Answer: (A)

On final approach, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way. It’s closer to the runway and has less time to respond if paths converge, so the higher aircraft must yield and avoid descending through or into the lower aircraft’s path. This rule helps maintain safe separation as both try to reach the landing zone. Being higher, faster, or carrying more fuel does not give any aircraft priority in this situation; altitude is what determines who goes first.

On final approach, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way. It’s closer to the runway and has less time to respond if paths converge, so the higher aircraft must yield and avoid descending through or into the lower aircraft’s path. This rule helps maintain safe separation as both try to reach the landing zone. Being higher, faster, or carrying more fuel does not give any aircraft priority in this situation; altitude is what determines who goes first.