Low-flying aircraft sign: what it means
The low-flying aircraft sign warns that aircraft may fly low over the road ahead, or that there may be sudden aircraft noise. The noise can startle you.
What does the low-flying aircraft sign mean?
Know your traffic signs describes it as low-flying aircraft or sudden aircraft noise. Similar signs warn of gliders and helicopters.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- A hazard ahead; the plate says what it is.
- Low-flying aircraft or sudden noise ahead.
- Strong side winds likely ahead.
Show answer
B. Low-flying aircraft or sudden noise ahead. Low-flying aircraft or sudden aircraft noise ahead (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: warning signs, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
Near airfields and airports, usually where the road passes close to the end of a runway.
What should you do?
Keep your attention on the road. Do not slow down suddenly or stop to watch the aircraft, and be ready for drivers ahead who do.
What do people get wrong?
Being startled by the sudden noise and braking sharply. Expect it, and keep driving smoothly.
Common questions
Does the sign mean I must stop for aircraft?
No. It is a warning of low-flying aircraft or sudden noise, not an order to stop.
Is there a sign for helicopters?
Yes. Know your traffic signs has similar warnings for low-flying helicopters and for gliders.
Compare with
Other danger signA hazard ahead; the plate says what it is.
Side winds signStrong side winds likely ahead.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (warning signs).
- Know your traffic signs: warning signs, GOV.UK
- Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Traffic sign images are Crown copyright, from the Department for Transport. Sources and image credits.