Which color indicates the airport elevation is above 8,500 ft?

• A. Amber
• B. Red
• C. Green
• D. White

Answer: (A)

Color cues are used to communicate elevation categories quickly. When an airport is above 8,500 ft, the amber indicator is used to warn you that high-altitude performance effects are in play. At higher elevations, air is thinner, which increases density altitude, often requiring longer takeoff runs, reduced climb performance, and careful performance planning. Amber serves as a clear caution to review performance data, verify takeoff and landing distances, and anticipate these effects.

The other colors have different, unrelated meanings within the signaling system, so they don’t denote this elevation threshold.