While landing, which aircraft has the right of way?

In the context of landing aircraft, the principle of right-of-way is primarily based on altitude and position relative to the runway. The correct answer indicates that the aircraft with the lowest altitude has the right of way. This is significant because, during the landing phase, the aircraft that is closer to the ground is typically in a more critical phase of flight and should not be overtaken by another aircraft that is at a higher altitude.

Additionally, an aircraft that is lower to the ground, especially if it is on final approach, has priority to ensure a safe and orderly landing sequence. It is crucial for air traffic control to maintain safe separation between aircraft during this critical phase of flight, thereby making it imperative for the aircraft at the lowest altitude to have the right of way.

In contrast, while factors like departure time or proximity to landing might seem relevant, they do not take precedence over altitude as a determinant of right-of-way in landing scenarios. An aircraft that is higher does not have priority over a lower aircraft, and the timing of departure is not a deciding factor once both aircraft are in the landing process.