FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is required for a pilot to operate under Special VFR (SVFR) at night within Class D airspace?

1. No additional requirements are needed

2. Only a private pilot’s license

3. An instrument rating and the aircraft must be equipped for instrument flight

4. A flight instructor must be present

The correct answer is: An instrument rating and the aircraft must be equipped for instrument flight

To operate under Special VFR at night within Class D airspace, a pilot must hold an instrument rating, and the aircraft must be equipped for instrument flight. This requirement is in place primarily due to the challenging visibility and operational conditions that can occur at night. Special VFR allows pilots to navigate through Class D airspace when visibility is below the standard VFR minimums but still allows for visual separation from other aircraft. However, night operations come with an inherent increase in risk, and having an instrument rating ensures that the pilot is trained to handle potential low visibility scenarios that may arise during night flights. Additionally, the aircraft must be outfitted for instrument flight to facilitate navigation and control under potential instrument meteorological conditions. This combination of qualifications enhances safety and compliance with the regulations governing night operations in controlled airspace.