Obtaining Your Night Rating

To obtain a Night Rating from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), you need a valid Private Pilot License (PPL), complete 10 hours of dual instrument flight instruction (including simulator time),  successfully pass a night flight test, including a night cross-country flight and at least 5 take-offs and landings by night. 

Prerequisites:

  • Valid Private Pilot License (PPL):You must hold a valid PPL to be eligible for a night rating. 

  • Age:You must be at least 17 years old. 

  • Medical Certificate:You need a valid Class 1 or 2 aviation medical certificate. 

  • English Language Proficiency:You must be fluent in English (speak, read, write, and understand).

 Training Requirements:

  • Ground School:

Complete 5 hours of theoretical briefings on night flying and basic instrument flying. 

  • Instrument Flight Training:

Complete 10 hours of dual instrument flight instruction, with a maximum of 5 hours in an approved simulator. 

  • Night Flying Training:

    • Complete 5 hours of general night flying, including cross-country and circuit practice. 

    • Complete a night cross-country flight of at least 150 nautical miles, including two full-stop landings at two different controlled airports. 

    • Perform at least 5 take-offs and landings by night.

 SACAA Online Examination:

Pass the SACAA online examination.

The syllabus includes relevant content to:

  • Air Law

  • Meteorology

  • Human Performance

  • Lighting Systems

 Practical Flight Test:

  • Pass a night rating flight test conducted by an approved flight instructor or SACAA designated examiner. 

The test will assess your ability to perform night flying manoeuvres, navigate, and handle emergencies.

Night Rating Privileges

  •  A night rating enables a pilot to act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft during the hours of darkness (15 minutes after sunset to 15 minutes before sunrise). 

  • It's a specific endorsement on a pilot's license, allowing them to fly under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at night. 

  • It improves situational awareness and enhances safety for pilots. 

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