What type of lights should not be used when landing a helicopter?

When landing a helicopter, the use of white flashlights is generally discouraged because they can impair the pilot’s night vision. Helicopter pilots rely on their ability to see and adjust to their surroundings during landing, and bright white lights can create glare or a disruption in their ability to perceive depth and distances. This is particularly important in low-light or nighttime situations where maintaining visual acuity is critical for a safe landing.

Instead, colored lights or red lights are preferred because they are less harsh on the eyes, allowing pilots to maintain their night vision while also providing sufficient illumination to identify the landing zone. Traffic wands, often used for directing vehicles, can also adequately communicate directions without adversely affecting the pilot's visibility.