Photo provided by Tri-Met Webmaster.
Pilot Flags
The majority of Light Rail systems, like all rail systems use "pilot flags" for single-tracking operations not controlled by automatic signaling systems. A "card, medallion or flag" can be designated as a pilot flag.
During a period of downtown construction construction Spring-Summer, 1999, Portland's Tri-Met Light Rail Operators used this medallion as a pilot flag. Other "items" that used as pilot flags (such as a toilet paper roll, Kermit the Frog and other "medallions") were changed every few weeks. On one occasion a "pink bunny" (Photo below) was used as the pilot flag". The bunny is shown below in an office chair located in a much milder (and possibly warmer) environment, than she had been used to, while being used as a pilot flag.
Photo provided by Tri-Met Webmaster.
Updated November 4, 2000