Night Flying
Night VFR is less forgiving. You need current night landings, the right lights, and the discipline to fly instruments when the horizon disappears.
Currency & equipment
To carry passengers at night, §61.57 requires 3 full-stop takeoffs and landings at night within 90 days (category/class as required). For this rule, night begins 1 hour after sunset and ends 1 hour before sunrise.
Aircraft night equipment (91.205) includes position lights, anticollision light, adequate electrical energy, and other items as applicable, plus a landing light if operated for hire.
Eyes & fatigue
Rod cells dominate night vision; avoid bright white light when you can. Allow time for dark adaptation. Fatigue and mild hypoxia are easier to miss at night. Respect personal minimums.
Illusions
Autokinesis, false horizon, black-hole approaches, and featureless terrain can mislead. Trust instruments. On dark approaches, use PAPI/VASI and go around early if unstable.
Airport lighting & ops
Know runway edge lights, REIL, PAPI/VASI, beacons, and pilot-controlled lighting. Preflight with a flashlight; carry a spare. Obstacles and wires are harder to see. Fly conservative patterns.
Practice questions
1. Night passenger currency takeoffs/landings?
Show Answer
3 full-stop night takeoffs and landings within 90 days.
2. Name one night illusion.
Show Answer
Autokinesis, black-hole approach, or false horizon.
3. Why dim/red cockpit lighting?
Show Answer
To preserve dark adaptation / night vision.