What is the primary risk when conducting a night landing?

The primary risk when conducting a night landing is the difficulty in judging altitude and distance. At night, visual references that pilots rely on during the daytime are significantly reduced. Therefore, the lack of visual cues can make it challenging to accurately perceive the aircraft's height above the ground and its distance from the runway. This can lead to misjudgments in the approach, which are critical to ensure a safe landing.

Pilots often depend on instruments for precise altitude and distance information during night operations, but if not managed well, these factors can contribute to spatial disorientation. Familiarity with the airport layout and proper use of approach lights and runway markings are essential tools to mitigate these risks.

Other factors, such as the likelihood of animal strikes, engine failures, or unpredictable weather changes, while they can occur at night, are not as directly associated with the challenges posed by decreased visibility. The primary concern remains how well a pilot can gauge their approach in conditions that lack sufficient light.