Definition
A row of in-pavement red lights installed in the takeoff area of a runway, centered on the runway centerline and extending outward from the departure end. When illuminated, they indicate to a pilot in takeoff position that it is unsafe to begin the takeoff roll because the runway is not clear ahead. They are part of the Runway Status Lights (RWSL) system and operate automatically based on surveillance data, without controller input.
Plain English
Red lights set into the runway surface near where you start your takeoff roll. If they light up while you're holding for takeoff, something is on the runway ahead and you must not go.
Context Anchor
Seen at airports equipped with runway status light systems, especially when an aircraft is lined up on a runway for departure.
Why Pilots Care
They give an immediate visual stop signal that helps prevent runway incursions and collisions during the most critical phase of flight.
Grounding Statement
Red Takeoff Hold Lights mean stop and do not begin the takeoff roll.
Intuition Check
Do not read “hold” as a suggestion or delay for convenience. In this context, it means do not start takeoff while the red lights are illuminated.
Example Sentence 1
Lined up on Runway 27, the crew saw the Takeoff Hold Lights illuminate and held position while querying the tower.
Example Sentence 2
After the crossing traffic cleared the runway, the THLs went dark and the tower cleared the flight for takeoff.