FAA Ground School Practice Test

During VFR flights in Class D airspace, which equipment must the airplane have for night operations?

1. Navigation lights only

2. Visual flight instruments

3. Only a transponder

4. IFR equipment

The correct answer is: IFR equipment

For night operations in Class D airspace during VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flights, the airplane is required to have specific equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The correct choice indicates that IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) equipment is necessary. While flying at night, it is critical to have equipment that allows for better navigation and awareness of other aircraft, especially in busy airspace like Class D. Additionally, having IFR equipment enhances a pilot's ability to deal with unexpected situations, such as sudden weather changes that might reduce visibility. Important components of IFR equipment include instruments for monitoring altitude, heading, and attitude, as well as communication systems to ensure that the pilot can stay in contact with air traffic control. In contrast, the other options, such as navigation lights only, visual flight instruments, or simply a transponder, do not encompass the full range of equipment necessary for safe night flying in Class D airspace. Navigation lights are essential for visibility but insufficient alone for safe operations after dark. Similarly, visual flight instruments do not provide the same level of safety and redundancy that IFR equipment does, particularly at night. A transponder is helpful for communication and traffic awareness, but it does not replace the need for comprehensive navigation and situational awareness tools that IFR