Flying a drone at night can open up a different perspective. It also changes the information available to the pilot. Features that are easy to recognise during daylight can become difficult to distinguish. Obstacles may be harder to see, and judging the aircraft’s position against a dark background can take more concentration. Preparing for these differences is an important part of developing night-flying capability.

A site you know well during the day may feel very different after dark. Trees, cables, uneven ground and nearby structures can become less obvious. Lighting may create glare or shadows, while activity around the site can change as the evening progresses. Where practicable, inspecting the location in daylight helps you identify hazards and plan a suitable operating area before visibility reduces.

Night-flight preparation includes the people and equipment on the ground. Consider how you will access the site, prepare the aircraft, move around safely and maintain a clear take-off and landing area. Organising equipment in advance reduces unnecessary searching and distraction. Anyone supporting the flight should understand their role and know how to communicate a concern.

At night, it can be more difficult to judge the aircraft’s direction and movement using visual cues alone. Pilots need to understand their aircraft’s lighting, its limitations and the techniques they use to maintain orientation and awareness. A sound flight plan includes clear reasons to delay, shorten or end the operation. Changing weather, reduced visibility, unexpected activity or difficulty maintaining awareness should prompt a fresh assessment.

NZ Drones Academy’s Night Rating combines theory and practical assessment to develop night-flying knowledge, preparation and operational judgement.
Under Part 101, CATI 101-1 clause 2.11 permits night operations indoors or as shielded operations. For night operations relying on the alternative pathway in clause 2.11(b), the pilot must successfully complete an appropriate course authorised by an organisation approved by the Director to provide night operations training. If the pilot has not flown at night in the previous 90 days, they must successfully conduct a 30-minute shielded operation at night to refamiliarise themselves. The aircraft must have appropriate lighting to determine its orientation throughout the operation, and the pilot must operate no more than one aircraft at a time.
All other applicable Part 101 and CATI requirements still apply. Operations under Part 102 must remain within the operator’s certificate, operations specifications and approved procedures. Training alone does not grant operational permissions.
Explore Night Rating training at www.nzdronesacademy.co.nz/course/night-rating