Night flying - a special chapter in visual flight
Night VFR involves flying under visual flight rules during the legal night period, i.e. from the end of civil twilight until the beginning of the next morning. From a flight physiological, aeronautical and atmospheric point of view, night flying differs significantly from day flying.
Typical features are calm layers of air, the almost complete absence of thermals and the visually impressive sight of illuminated cities, streets and industrial plants. Many pilots describe the first night flight as almost magical - a feeling of clear air, wide visibility and intense concentration. At the same time, visual referencing is limited and many external perceptual stimuli function differently or not at all.
Special risks and dangers in the dark
The challenges of night flying are not only visual, but also psychological and physiological. Some risks occur exclusively or to a greater extent in the dark.
Restricted vision and optical illusions
One of the classic phenomena is the black hole effect: an approach over unlit terrain makes the altitude appear too high, which can lead to an unintentionally low final approach. False light-dark contrasts, points of light without spatial allocation or distant settlements can also distort perception.
Emergency scenarios are becoming more complex
An engine failure is already one of the most challenging situations during the day - at night, the situation becomes considerably worse. Suitable emergency landing fields are difficult to spot, and the last few metres above the ground often remain invisible until the landing lights come on. This explains why altitude is a decisive safety factor when flying at night.
Orientation and sense of balance
The lack of a natural horizon can lead to disorientation. The balance system of the inner ear is susceptible to illusions, which is particularly dangerous when changing course or altitude. A strictly instrument-orientated flying style is therefore essential, even when flying according to visual rules.
Increasing weather requirements
Almost all safety-relevant weather phenomena intensify at night:
- Rapid fog formation when close to the temperature dew point
- Poorly visible precipitation
- Barely perceptible horizontal structures
- Deep layers of vapour and moisture
For this reason, many flight schools recommend doubling their own weather minima for night flights.
The night flight authorisation - requirements and contents
The Night VFR Authorisation (NIT) is an extension of the PPL or LAPL licence. It allows flights between sunset and sunrise. The training comprises at least five hours, including solo landings, aerodrome circuits at night, cross-country navigation and practical instruction in night flight physiology.
A separate practical test is not usually required; the flying school confirms the competence and registers the authorisation.
Modern GA fleets and glass cockpits have made it even easier to get started: LED landing lights, reliable panel lighting, easily dimmable avionics and synthetic vision can reduce the workload - but are no substitute for the need for solid training.
Planning and implementation - what really matters
Preparing for a night flight is much more comprehensive than during the day. In addition to the basic flight planning, several specific aspects play an important role.
Route and emergency landing options
Pilots should consciously choose areas that at least theoretically allow emergency landings. Large forests, bodies of water or mountains increase the risk considerably. Flying over industrial areas also offers areas that are almost impossible to reach safely in the event of an engine failure.
Aircraft lighting and cockpit management
Correct light management is crucial - both outside (navigation lights, beacon, landing lights) and inside. Bright light in the cockpit destroys dark adaptation within a few seconds. Many pilots also use red light or dimmed map lighting.
Tool and equipment check
Good preparation includes:
- Redundant torches
- Spare batteries
- Functioning panel dimming
- Sufficient fuel with generous reserves
Flight style as in instrument flight
Night flights are often similar to IFR flights. Especially after take-off and during climb phases, the pilot must focus almost exclusively on the instruments. Incorrect spatial perception can lead to dangerous deviations even at low altitudes.
The PAVE checklist - night flights with a system
The PAVE checklist is a proven tool for aeronautical decision-making and is particularly suitable for night flights.
P - Pilot
This is about personal performance and experience:
- valid night flight authorisation
- Sufficient practice and night landings
- Concentration, fatigue, daily form
- Vision and dark adaptation
A - Aircraft
A night flight requires a correctly equipped and technically flawless aircraft:
- Navigation, anti-collision and landing lights
- Sufficient fuel plus reserve
- Functioning avionics and lighting
V - Environment
The environment is the most critical factor when flying at night:
- Weather and fog risk
- Cloud bases
- Moonlight or complete darkness
- Obstacles and terrain
- Lighting at take-off and arrival airports
E - External Pressure
A night flight is not an environment for compromise:
- Avoid deadline pressure
- Brief passengers correctly
- Plan for the option to turn back if necessary
Many experienced pilots say: „A night flight is actually an IFR flight without IFR clearance - with all the consequences.“
Conclusion
Night VFR combines fascinating impressions with a higher degree of responsibility and discipline. Those who plan properly, assess their skills honestly and respect the special characteristics of darkness can experience night flying as one of the most beautiful elements of private flying. Modern equipment makes many things easier, but the core tasks remain the same: awareness, preparation and the ability to consistently trust your own instrument picture. If you take these principles to heart, you will not only expand your flying skills, but also open up a special dimension of aviation that is reserved for only a few. Every measure to increase situational awareness, whether through radio contact, map study or collision warning systems, significantly increases safety in a dynamic and demanding airspace such as the TMZ NE.
Source references:
Staysafe.aero
