Question 24

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A is correct because it directly reflects the exception provided in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 23, paragraph (b), concerning Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft. Rule 23(b) states: "A WIG craft, when taking off, landing and in flight near the surface shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit a high intensity all-round flashing red light. **Where the light spacing requirements in Rule 21 cannot be met, the lights must be positioned as closely as possible to the requirements, as determined by the WIG craft’s Administration (government).**" This rule acknowledges the unique design constraints of WIG craft, which often prevent full compliance with the standard height and spacing requirements (Rule 21) for navigation lights, particularly the masthead lights. In such cases, the rule mandates compliance "as closely as possible," with the specific implementation approved by the craft's flag state (Administration/government). **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) An all-round light should be substituted for the after-masthead light and the stern light.** This is incorrect. While COLREGs sometimes allow substitutions (e.g., for very small vessels), there is no provision in the rules to substitute an after-masthead light and a stern light with a single all-round light specifically due to spacing constraints on a WIG craft. Furthermore, the rule for WIG craft (Rule 23(b)) addresses the spacing issue by demanding close compliance, not light substitution (except for the mandatory flashing red light). * **C) The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.** This is incorrect. Navigation lights are mandatory for vessel identification and collision avoidance. Omitting required lights because they cannot meet strict spacing requirements would severely violate the core purpose of COLREGs and compromise safety. The rule requires that all mandated lights be carried, positioned as closely as possible to the required specifications. * **D) The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.** This is incorrect. If the WIG craft is designed such that its fundamental configuration inherently prevents full compliance with spacing rules (Rule 21), forcing structural alterations to achieve full compliance would defeat the purpose of the specific exemption provided in Rule 23(b) for WIG craft. The exception exists because alterations for full compliance are often impractical or impossible while maintaining the craft's function.