What is the general purpose of the light gun signals?

The general purpose of light gun signals is primarily to supplement radio communication. Light gun signals are visual signals used by air traffic controllers to communicate with aircraft or ground vehicles when radio communication is not possible, whether due to equipment failure or when an aircraft cannot operate on radio frequencies. This method ensures that essential instructions and information can still be conveyed in situations where verbal communication is impaired, maintaining safety and efficient operations at airfields.

While other options touch on important aspects of airfield management, they do not capture the primary role of light gun signals as effectively. Indicating weather conditions, managing ground vehicles, and coordinating personnel are all important functions in an airfield environment, but they do not directly relate to the specific purpose of light gun signals in facilitating effective communication.