Which equipment is required for Night VFR in addition to day VFR instruments?

For Night VFR (Visual Flight Rules), specific equipment is mandated to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The requirement for a landing light when carrying passengers is particularly significant because it enhances visibility during night operations. A landing light provides a strong source of illumination, which is essential for both the pilot’s ability to see the runway during approach and landing and for other aircraft to see your aircraft, thereby reducing the risk of mid-air collisions.

While the other equipment listed may be useful for safe flight operations, they are not specifically required under regulations for Night VFR. The vertical speed indicator and magnetic compass are part of the basic required instruments for both day and night operations, but they don’t address the particular safety concerns related to nighttime visibility. Weather radar is typically utilized for avoiding adverse weather but is not a regulatory requirement for Night VFR operations. Thus, the landing light requirement stands out as a critical safety measure when flying at night with passengers aboard.