When should the beacon light be turned on?

The beacon light serves as a vital safety feature, particularly in alerting other aircraft and ground personnel to a plane's presence and intentions. The correct answer indicates that the beacon light should be turned on before starting the engine. This is essential because it signals to others that the aircraft is being prepared for takeoff, thus enhancing safety on the airfield.

Turning on the beacon before engine start ensures that bystanders and other pilots are aware that the aircraft is active and that the engines could be starting soon. This practice is especially critical in busy environments, where heightened awareness can prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations.

While it is important for the beacon light to remain operational throughout taxiing and before takeoff, the specific moment to turn it on for heightened safety is indeed prior to starting the engine. Other actions, like taxiing or conducting a preflight inspection, may not have the same immediate necessity for using the beacon light because the main focus is on signaling activity that indicates the aircraft is ready to operate.