When is it necessary to have a flashlight on board?

Having a flashlight on board from sunset to sunrise is critical because these are the times when visibility can be severely limited. In darkness, a flashlight serves multiple important purposes. It not only provides necessary illumination for navigating and conducting pre-flight inspections, but it also enhances safety during unexpected events such as emergencies or equipment malfunctions that may occur after dark. Additionally, having a source of light is crucial for signaling or communication purposes if you find yourself on the ground in a situation where visibility is impaired.

While flying at night alone is also a valid consideration for carrying a flashlight, the requirement extends beyond just flight operations to include the times when you may be preparing for your flight or conducting other necessary activities on the ground during those hours. Daytime operations generally do not necessitate a flashlight because natural light is typically sufficient for visibility. Compliance checks, while important, do not specify a time frame that necessitates carrying a flashlight. Therefore, having a flashlight on board from sunset to sunrise is a comprehensive safety measure that supports operational readiness in low-light conditions.