When two or more aircraft are approaching an airport for landing, which aircraft has the right of way?

The correct answer is that the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right of way when approaching an airport for landing. This guideline is established to enhance safety during landing maneuvers, as the aircraft at a lower altitude is generally in a more stable approach path and is more committed to landing.

In terms of aviation protocols, the principle is linked to the idea that an aircraft flying lower has already established its approach relative to the ground and is often closer to the runway. This rule allows for predictable behavior and minimizes the risk of conflict between aircraft.

The guidelines are structured to ensure that lower aircraft can maintain their descent path without having to perform unnecessary maneuvers, which would become critical in a crowded airspace around an airport.

The other options do not recognize the specific altitudes' influence in landing scenarios adequately or are not recognized aviation rules. For instance, the idea that the aircraft that is either ahead of or to the right has priority does occur in certain air traffic situations but is not the overarching rule governing landing approaches.