Landing lights are not only useful for taxi, takeoffs, and landings, but also provide a means by which airplanes can be seen at night by other pilots. Pilots are encouraged to turn on their landing lights when operating within 10 miles of an airport and below 10,000 feet.

Under FAA regulations and best practices, pilots are encouraged to turn on their landing lights when operating within 10 miles of an airport and below 10,000 feet. This is known as the "Operation Lights On" program, designed to enhance the "see and avoid" concept by making the aircraft more visible to other pilots and ground controllers. Additionally, landing lights are mandatory for night operations between sunset and sunrise when the aircraft is in flight. Many airlines and flight schools also mandate the use of landing lights whenever a landing clearance is received or during the "final approach" segment of a flight. In conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog or haze, pilots may turn them on even during the day to ensure they are spotted by others. It is important to note that pilots may temporarily turn them off in heavy clouds or fog at night to avoid the "blinding" effect of the light reflecting off the moisture, which can cause spatial disorientation.