What is one of the visual references required to descend below MDA/DH?

To descend below Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) or Decision Height (DH), pilots must have specific visual references to ensure they can safely continue with the approach and landing. Threshold lights are critical visual references that indicate the landing runway's beginning. When a pilot sees these lights, they have a clear visual cue that they are approaching the runway and can proceed with the landing, provided they can see the runway environment distinctly.

Other visual references, such as approach lights or other runway features, can also assist pilots but are not explicitly mentioned as one of the primary requirements for descending below MDA/DH. While clouds visible in the distance or runway markings may provide additional context, they do not satisfy the requirement as effectively as threshold lights do, which directly indicate the point at which the runway begins. Similarly, air traffic control guidance is important for overall situational awareness but does not constitute a visual reference for descent.