Night Rating Course Overview

Whether you've recently gained your PPL or have been flying for many years, the Night Rating is the perfect way to expand your flying privileges. Flying after sunset introduces new challenges and provides valuable learning opportunities, helping you develop new skills and build confidence as a pilot. If you plan to progress towards a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), obtaining a Night Rating is also a mandatory prerequisite.

The course begins with dual instruction, introducing you to the skies at night. You’ll learn about aircraft and airfield lighting, night circuits, take-offs and landings, visual illusions, and procedures for handling lighting failures. As your confidence grows and skills develop, you’ll complete the required five solo full-stop night take-offs and landings, together with a dual cross-country flight.

Alongside your flight training, you'll receive comprehensive ground instruction covering the key principles of night operations. Topics include weather considerations, airfield lighting, flight planning, human factors, visual illusions, and emergency procedures, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to operate safely after dark and knowledge you will be able to utilise even for your daytime flights.

Once you have successfully completed the required five hours of night flight training and your instructor is satisfied that you have reached the required standard, they will issue your Course Completion Certificate. Unlike most other licence ratings, the Night Rating does not require a Skill Test with an examiner. You can apply immediately to have the rating added to your licence, and once issued, it remains valid for life.