NZ-CAAInstrument and night ratings
Night Flying Guidance for Pilots
Read the official ruleThe guidance covers essential training for pilots to fly safely at night, emphasizing the increased risks associated with night flights. It outlines prerequisites for night training, such as completing instrument flight maneuvers and understanding night vision dynamics, as well as legal requirements and emergency procedures relevant to night flying.
Key points
- Night flying requires effective preparation to manage inherent risks.
- Pilots must complete certain instrument flight maneuvers before night flight training.
- Understanding night vision and avoiding illusions is critical for safety.
- Emergency procedures specific to night flight must be clearly understood.
*Plain-English summary of Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand guidance — always consult the official source (linked above) for current, authoritative requirements.*
This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 15, 2026.