Some may say yes, but I believe the real purpose of the flag is the status of ATC. That is, the raised flag indicates that ATC is manned. I believe it is a tradition that hass fallen by the wayside in modern times. Anyway, hope that clears it up. BTW, would love to see the NOTAM: YPDN AD - LIMITED ATC SERV AVBL DUE PLAGUE. ACFT ARE ADVISED TO TAXI QUICKLY PAST ATC TOWER TO AVOID ILLNESS. SUDEN LOSS OF SERVICES MAY OCCURR DUE DEATH OF CONTROLLER.
Cheers,
NFR.
BTW, Dog, what were you taxiing past in?