Chapter 15: Night Contact Flight Procedures

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

NIGHT CONTACT FLIGHT PROCEDURES

1500. INTRODUCTION

This chapter provides the basic procedures and techniques required to conduct night flight

operations. While these procedures form a basis, the expanded procedures for each Training Air

Wing may be varied. Consult your most current Standard Operating Procedure for further

amplification.

1501. TAKEOFF PROCEDURES

All takeoffs will be conducted in accordance with NATOPS and the current SOP.

Call for takeoff clearance IAW local SOP/Course Rules.

Once takeoff clearance has been issued, position on the duty runway. Crossing the

holdshort line, complete the Takeoff Checklist. Position the aircraft on the runway centerline.

Commence Takeoff procedures IAW daytime operations.

Direct the instructor to check fuel cap security with a flashlight prior to landing gear

retraction.

NOTE

Anticipate a flashing Master Caution/LNDG LT annunciator light

when raising the gear with the landing lights on.

1502. HOMEFIELD DEPARTURE

Comply with tower instructions and make departure in accordance with local SOP.

1503. LANDING PATTERN

Entry to touch-and-go fields will be in accordance with the current SOP/Course Rules. Break

procedures will remain the same as day operations. After the break or crosswind turn, roll out

with a wingtip distance on the downwind leg.

At night, the wingtip distance remains the same as in the day. Crosscheck the RMI for the

reciprocal heading of the duty runway to assist in maintaining wingtip distance abeam.

Crosscheck the attitude gyro to maintain wings level in the downwind leg.

Abeam your intended point of landing, transition the aircraft by setting 300/275 ft-lbs. torque,

lowering full flaps (if required) and trimming left rudder and up elevator. At the 180 position,

start the approach turn and make the appropriate radio call in accordance with local SOP.

The landing lights will be used in accordance with local Course Rules.

NIGHT CONTACT FLIGHT PROCEDURES 15-1