Private Pilot Private Exam

What is the latest time a pilot can carry passengers if the official sunset is 2100 and the recency requirements for night flights are not met?

1. A. 2100

2. B. 2059

3. C. 2115

4. D. 2045

The correct answer is: B. 2059

The latest time a pilot can carry passengers is immediately before official sunset, which is 2100 hours. However, in practical terms, this means that the pilot must conclude the flight and ensure passengers are safely on the ground before sunset to comply with night flight regulations. Carrying passengers during periods close to sunset requires that the pilot adhere to specific recency requirements established for night operations. If these requirements are not met, the pilot must avoid carrying passengers during nighttime, defined as one hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise. Since the official sunset is at 2100, the appropriate time for the last safe moment to carry passengers would be just before that, at 2059. This ensures compliance with the intent of the regulations regarding nighttime flying and passenger safety. Therefore, carrying passengers until 2059 is permissible, allowing just enough time to ensure safe landing before the onset of night flight limitations come into effect at sunset.