B1106
FLIGHT
NIGHT
1.0 hours simulator
Night Flight Basics
OBJECTIVE
Allow trainees to apply night Visual Flight Rules (VFR) principles in a virtual simulator, focusing on illumination management, illusion mitigation, and safe takeoffs/landings to build confidence in low-visibility operations.
CONTENT
Pre-Flight Preparation
- • Configure simulator for night conditions; verify aircraft lights (position, anti-collision, landing) and dim cockpit illumination.
AIRCRAFT LIGHTING CHECK
• Position lights (nav)
• Anti-collision beacon
• Landing/taxi lights
• Cockpit dimmed
Takeoff and Departure
- • Use runway lights for alignment; smooth power application, rotate at normal speed; climb while referencing instruments to counter illusions.
En Route Navigation
- • Rely on GPS/instruments more than visuals; scan for lit landmarks/airports; maintain VFR altitudes with extra buffers.
Pattern and Landing
- • Enter patterns using airport beacons; judge flare height with runway perspective; practice 3 night landings, including touch-and-go.
Illusion and Hazard Management
- • Simulate autokinesis or black hole effects; go-around if disoriented; monitor fatigue.
NIGHT ILLUSIONS & MITIGATIONS
Autokinesis
Don't fixate; scan multiple references
Black Hole
Use VASI/PAPI; trust instruments
False Horizon
Cross-check attitude indicator
COMPLETION STANDARDS
Trainees will conduct night operations in the simulator with limited instructor assistance. Trainees must:
- • Complete at least three takeoffs/landings within tolerances (±500 ft altitude, ±20 knots airspeed)
- • Identify and mitigate two illusions
- • Adhere to night minimums per standards
Completion: Demonstrate proficiency with instructor sign-off