Legal night flight lighting

by David J. Beaulieu

Mar 13, 2018

As I moved out of Phase I testing, I am no longer restricted to strictly daylight flying, night flights are an option!  I am disappointed to come to the realization that my Strobe/Nav AeroLED EXP lighting does not seem to meet the required (light intensity) candela rating (400 candela) to be night legal.  (The EXP and NSP models have no listed candela rating.  as listed on the spec sheet.)  The PULSAR NSP light specs are listed as meeting required TSO candela requirements, but not sure what the TSO specs they are referring to. It would seem that if you want to fly at night and have the required lighting, do some research and go with something other than the AeroLED EXP and NSP lights offered thru Zenith.  Maybe they can get substitute the appropriately rated models for same price?  Otherwise, may have to purchase PMA items?

Anyone with some thoughts or comments?

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  • up

    Bob Jones

    Is the UL motor approved for nite flight , unlike the ROTAX ???
    3

    Mar 14, 2018

    • up

      Tim Jones

      HI David -

      Thank you for this post!   I missed this detail completely.  Will go with the NSP version for my Cruzer.

      Tim

      7

      Mar 15, 2018

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        Walt Snyder

        Regarding the engine being approved for night flight, that only pertains to SLSA aircraft. Rotax does have a certified engine, the 912S, which is used in S-LSA aircraft for night flight, as well as IFR, which also requires a certified engine. 

        There is no requirement for a certified engine for EAB for night flight. I have an aircraft powered by the Rotax 912ULS, an aircraft powered by a 2 stroke Rotax 582, and another powered by a 2 stroke Rotax 503, and all are authorized for night flight on their  operating limitations as an EAB.

        Walt

        2

        Mar 15, 2018