When must an aircraft's navigation lights be turned on?

An aircraft's navigation lights must be turned on between sunset and sunrise to ensure visibility and safety during nighttime operations. These lights help in identifying the aircraft's position, heading, and altitude relative to other aircraft and provide essential information for both pilots and ground personnel.

While proper lighting is also crucial during low visibility conditions and certain regulations may require lights to be on at all times during flight, the specific regulation states that navigation lights are mandatory from sunset to sunrise. This timeframe ensures that aircraft can be seen by others in the sky or those on the ground, significantly reducing the risk of collisions. Understanding the importance of visibility, especially during twilight or total darkness, helps maintain safety in aviation operations.