When are aircraft lights used at night?

• A. From sunset to sunrise
• B. From sunrise to sunset
• C. Only when landing for hire
• D. Never on in clouds

Answer: (A)

At night, lights are used because visibility is reduced and you need to be seen by other aircraft. The standard rule is to have the navigation (position) lights on from sunset to sunrise, so the aircraft remains conspicuous during the entire period of darkness. In addition, anti‑collision lights should be on whenever the aircraft is in flight, which applies to night operations as well. Landing lights are commonly used during night arrivals or departures for better visibility, but the critical timing concept is that lights are required from sunset to sunrise. The idea that lights are only for landing or never in clouds doesn’t fit with how night operation and conspicuity are managed.