To fly at night as a “tourist” helicopter pilot with a LAPL(A) or PPL(A) license, you must qualify for night flights (VFR night) confirmed by an entry in the pilot license (entry is “indefinite”). The VFR night endorsement allows you to fly in visual meteorological (VMC flights) in most EASA states, as some states may prohibit night flights according to VFR rules.
In order to obtain the VFR night endorsement according to the Part-FCL requirements, the candidate holding of the PPL(A) must complete a minimum of 5 hours of night flights in practical training program. The LAPL(A) license holder must first complete a minimum of 5 hours of training in simulated IMC conditions according to the PPL(A) training program. Part-MED requires medical certificate at least class 2.
VFR night rating is needed for flights from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. It is also necessary to implement as one of the career pilot’s career modules.
Flight training duration – VFR night training consists of two stages:
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- theoretical training – 5 hours of theoretical training in a stationary mode (individual or group classes).
- practical training – minimum 5 hours of flights as part of practical training (10 hours recommended). Upon its completion, you must apply to the Civil Aviation Authority for entry of the VFR night endorsement.
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