# 14. Aircraft & Operator Colors

## 1. Color priority chain

Marker color priority:
1. `Aircraft Colors` by ICAO hex has highest priority,
2. if missing, `Operator Colors` is used,
3. if both missing, default marker color is used.

## 2. Operator color resolution

`Operator Colors` lookup order:
1. first 3 characters of callsign,
2. `operatorFlagCode` from aircraft database record.

## 3. Visual modifiers

1. `Color by operator` in label config must be enabled for custom tinting.
2. Emergency squawk rendering forces emergency red.
3. Selected marker style can force yellow selection (unless `preserve` mode is used).

## 4. Admin/API behavior

1. both mappings are upsert-style (`PUT` creates or updates existing key),
2. mappings are persisted in data directory JSON files,
3. stored mappings are sorted by key on save.

## 5. Quick diagnostic checklist

1. verify key format (`ICAO hex` for Aircraft Colors, operator code for Operator Colors),
2. verify `Color by operator` is enabled,
3. remember Aircraft Colors overrides Operator Colors,
4. verify emergency/selection state is not masking expected tint.