If we are operating into an airport at night, what is required?

• A. A source of wind information.
• B. A fixed weather briefing.
• C. A set of night-vision goggles.
• D. A detailed de-icing plan.

Answer: (A)

Having a current source of wind information is essential when operating into an airport at night because wind conditions directly influence how you plan and execute the approach. Wind direction and speed determine which runway is most suitable, the amount of wind correction needed on final, the expected crosswind component, and the approach configuration you’ll use to achieve and maintain a stable descent in low-visibility, low-light conditions. Without up-to-date wind data, you can’t reliably judge whether your approach will remain stable or if a go-around might be safer, especially after dark when visual cues are reduced.

A fixed weather briefing isn’t inherently required at the moment of operation; you rely on current wind information you can obtain as needed. Night-vision goggles aren’t a universal requirement for standard night arrivals, only for specialized operations. A detailed de-icing plan is applicable only if de-icing will actually occur, not merely because the operation is at night.