Valid PPL/LAPL with basic instrument training; minimum 5 hours night flight time: 3-4 hours dual instruction (including 1hr dual cross-country of 50km+), 1 hour solo with 5 takeoffs and 5 full-stop landings. Training at a DTO or ATO. LAPL holders need PPL instrument flight training first.
EUR1,000-2,500 covering 5 hours flight time plus ground school. Spain/Southern Europe slightly cheaper. One of the best value-for-money post-PPL additions.
No formal skill test or written exam. Complete the required training, school issues course completion certificate, apply for endorsement. Instructor must be satisfied you're competent but no examiner involvement. One of the simplest ratings to obtain.
For CPL: yes — must have 5 hours night flight time (essentially a night rating). For IR: not a formal prerequisite but night experience is highly beneficial. Get it early if pursuing either.
Navigation lights, anti-collision lights, landing light(s), dimmable cockpit lighting, attitude indicator or turn coordinator, adequate electrical supply. Not all training aircraft are night-equipped. Pilot should carry a functioning flashlight (red filter preferred) as backup.
