On approach, the approach lighting allows you to descend to at least how many feet above the touchdown zone (TDZ) altitude?

• A. 50 feet above TDZ
• B. 500 feet above TDZ
• C. 100 feet above TDZ
• D. 200 feet above TDZ

Answer: (C)

Approach lighting gives you a visual cue that helps you transition from instrument flight to a landing by allowing a descent to a specific height above the touchdown zone elevation when the runway environment is in sight and minima are met. The standard allowance with the lighting is to descend to 100 feet above the TDZE. This height ensures you have enough runway environment visible to continue the landing safely, while lower altitudes would require the runway to be in sight under different conditions or use higher instrument minima. So, 100 feet above the touchdown zone elevation is the lowest height you’re supported to descend to using the approach lighting.