Introduction. The experience of flying at night is truly unique and should be tried by all pilots at least once. The Night Qualification allows the holder to act as pilot in command of an aircraft at night and provides an additional margin of safety as evening approaches at the end of a days flying. Flight Training Requirements. Candidates complete a minimum of 5 hours of flight training at night. An instrument flying refresher training flight during daylight hours is often found to be helpful prior to commencing the night training. It is worth keeping in mind that many candidates complete a greater number of flight training hours. Training for the Night Qualification may be completed during training for the EASA PPL. The flight training must include the following:

Ø 3 hours dual training including 1 hour of navigation.

Ø 5 take off and full stop landings at night as pilot in command.

Theoretical Knowledge Subjects. There are no theoretical exams required; however a suitable level of background study and briefing with your instructor will ensure that the considerations of night flying are fully understood.

Training Credits. Credits towards the flight training are available. These are dependent upon previous training and experience.

Skills Test. There is no flight skills test, simply an application to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to have the qualification added on your licence.

Currency. To carry passengers the pilot in command must have completed at least 3 take offs and 3 landings during the previous 90 days. If the pilot in command does not have a current Instrument Rating (IR) then 1 take off and 1 landing must have been completed at night. As with all safety related matters, a greater level of currency is always advisable.

Additional References. Additional information can be found by using the following link:

Ø CAP 804 – Section 4 – Part I