Night Operations

Part 107 Night Flying Rules

Since 2021, Part 107 pilots can fly at night without a waiver. Here is everything you need to know.

Night Flying Requirements

Anti-Collision Lighting

Your drone must have anti-collision lights visible for 3 statute miles

Completed Night Training

Must complete updated Part 107 training that includes night operations

Visual Line of Sight

You must still maintain VLOS of your drone at all times

No Waiver Needed

As of April 2021, night operations no longer require a waiver

Anti-Collision Light Requirements

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3 Statute Mile Visibility

Your anti-collision lights must be visible from 3 statute miles away. This typically requires a strobe light of at least 3 candela intensity.

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Strobe Recommended

While steady lights are allowed, strobing lights are more visible and recommended for night operations.

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Placement Matters

Lights should be mounted where they are visible from all directions. Top-mounted strobes are popular choices.

When is "Night" Defined?

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Civil Twilight

Night begins at the end of evening civil twilight (about 30 min after sunset)

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Official Night

When the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon until morning civil twilight

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Night Ends

Night ends at the beginning of morning civil twilight (about 30 min before sunrise)

Night Flying Safety Tips

1Scout your location during daylight first
2Use orientation lights in addition to anti-collision
3Fly lower than you would during the day
4Have a spotter to help maintain visual contact
5Check for obstacles that may be hard to see
6Reduce flight speed for better control
7Bring backup batteries (cold drains them faster)
8Use apps to check exact twilight times

Master Night Operations

Our Part 107 study system includes updated night operations training to help you fly safely and legally after dark.

Get Night Flying Training