Night Currency
Pilots often use night currency as shorthand, but the regulatory question is tied to the specific operation, especially passenger carrying during the period defined by the applicable rule.
Night flying and passenger currency differ
Recent night experience does not necessarily answer every passenger-carrying requirement, and satisfying a legal threshold does not guarantee broad proficiency in night operations. Use current §61.57 for the exact rule.
Definitions matter
Regulations may use specific definitions and periods rather than conversational meanings of night. Aircraft category, class, type where required, and the nature of takeoffs and landings can matter.
Night proficiency goes further
Practical night proficiency can involve visual illusions, airport lighting, navigation, weather judgment, emergency planning, approaches and landings. These are useful practice topics even when not themselves a legal checklist.
Practice Targets are personal reminders. They do not establish regulatory currency, proficiency, legal eligibility to fly, or compliance with a specific operating requirement.
Authoritative references
- FAA AC 61-98E — Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check
- FAA AC 61-91K — WINGS—Pilot Proficiency Program
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — 14 CFR Part 61
Night experience is not one skill
Night takeoffs, landings, navigation, airport identification, weather judgment and emergency planning may have different levels of recency.
Related resources
This page is a general reference. Verify current regulations, aircraft documentation and operating requirements applicable to your flight.