What can be inferred if you see a steady white light and a rotating light ahead at your altitude during a night flight?

Seeing a steady white light accompanied by a rotating light at your altitude during a night flight indicates that you are likely observing an aircraft that is headed away from your position. The steady white light is typically used for navigation and position indication on aircraft, while the rotating light suggests that you are looking at an object that is not moving towards you directly but rather moving away.

When approaching an aircraft, you would expect to see different combinations of lights, such as steady or flashing red or green lights that indicate the orientation and direction of the other aircraft. The absence of those lights and the presence of a steady white and rotating light strongly suggest that the other aircraft is maintaining a steady course away from you, rather than approaching or preparing to land.

This understanding of the light patterns is crucial for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safe distance from other aircraft during flight operations.