Which marking indicates the touchdown zone for an approaching aircraft?

The indication of the touchdown zone for an approaching aircraft is provided by the touchdown zone markings lights. These lights are specifically designed to assist pilots in identifying the portion of the runway that is optimal for landing, typically located in the first 3,000 feet of the runway length. They serve as visual aids to indicate the start of this critical area, which is particularly useful during conditions of reduced visibility.

In contrast, runway end identification lights are located at the ends of the runway and help pilots identify the runway boundaries from a distance but do not mark the touchdown zone itself. Threshold markings indicate where the usable portion of the runway begins, while altimeter settings refer to pressure readings that help pilots maintain altitude but are not related to runway markings. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for pilots to ensure safe and accurate landing procedures.