What can a pilot do to minimize risk when flying VFR at night?

Flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules) at night presents unique challenges, particularly concerning visibility and spatial orientation. The choice to look on the map for the highest obstacle and fly at least 2000 feet above it is a prudent method of minimizing risk. This practice allows the pilot to create a buffer zone above the highest terrain or obstacles in the area, significantly reducing the chances of an inadvertent encounter with those obstacles during a night flight. This precaution is essential since depth perception can be impaired at night, making it harder to judge altitude and distance.

Maintaining such a safety margin also prepares the pilot for unforeseen circumstances, as terrain variations can be hard to detect in low-light conditions. Ensuring that you have adequate vertical separation from potential hazards is critical for overall flight safety when visibility is compromised. Therefore, by flying at least 2000 feet above the identified highest obstacle, the pilot is actively implementing a strategy to enhance safety and reduce risks associated with night flying under VFR.