There are only 8 light sources defined in the FS9 engine, which was a lot for hardware cards when FS9 came out. Hopefully, FS10 will add a few more light sources for more proper functionality (and eye candy).We're stuck in the meantime with fancy tricks like light textures to mimic the missing lights (example, tail lighting).

At gate - Logo / Navigation lights onlyPrior to pushback - Logo, Navigation, Anti-collisionTaxi - Logo, Navigation, Anti-collision, Taxi (turn off taxi lights when you are stationary on any active taxiways) ONTaking the active - Navigation, Anti-collision, Strobes, Wing ONCleared for takeoff - Navigation, Anti-collision, Strobes, Wing lights, R/W turn-off, Landing lights ONPassing 10,000 - Turn off R/W turnoff, Turn off LandingPassing 18,000 - Turn off Wing lights, Turn off Logo lightsCruise - Nav, Strobe, Anti-collision ONDecent through 18,000 - Nav, Strobe, Logo, Wing, ONDecent through 10,000 - Nav, Strobe, Logo, Landing, runway turnoff ONTurning off active - Landing, runway turnoff, strobe OFFAt gate - All external lights off except Logo and NavigationHope this helps.

Well the runway turnoff lights is dependant on the pilots decision and company rules. But navigation lights can be switched off when arriving at a gate and after shutting the plane down. Nav lights are like a notice to tower staff and others that this plane is going to depart sooner or later.

Have a look at the Geezer Guide for PMDG NG Version 5. In it you will find the SOPS for Pacific Blue. These are real world procedures rather than fanciful guesstimates.Very illuminating - another kind of light only this has a switch that is unfortunately inoperable in some cases.Andy b