Instruments and equipment for operations at night

This regulation specifies additional equipment required for Part 121 air carrier operations at night, beyond the basic instruments already mandated by other sections.

Aircraft must have position lights and an anti-collision light for visibility to other aircraft. Two landing lights are required, though airplanes type certificated after December 31, 1964, in the nontransport category need only one.

The cockpit must have instrument lighting bright enough to read all required instruments and controls easily, with shielding to prevent glare in pilots' eyes and minimize reflections. The lighting intensity must be adjustable unless fixed lighting is proven adequate.

To prevent ice-related failures during night operations when visual detection is harder, the airspeed system must have a heated pitot tube or equivalent anti-icing protection. Finally, a sensitive altimeter is required for accurate altitude information in darkness.

These requirements ensure pilots can see, be seen, and maintain situational awareness during night operations.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*