Final answer:
To carry passengers at night, a PIC must have a private pilot certificate, recent flight experience with three takeoffs and three landings at night, and ensure the aircraft has the necessary equipment for nighttime operation.
Step-by-step explanation:
To carry passengers at night as a Pilot in Command (PIC), there are specific requirements that must be met according to the Federal Aviation Regulations. First, the PIC must hold at least a private pilot certificate. Additionally, the pilot must have recent flight experience, which includes performing at least three takeoffs and three landings to a full stop during the nighttime within the 90 days preceding the flight. Importantly, these landings must occur during the period from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise, and this experience must be in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type (if required) that is being used to carry passengers.
Moreover, the PIC must ensure the aircraft has the necessary equipment for nighttime flying, which includes functioning lighting, navigation, and communication systems appropriate for the flight. It is also crucial for the PIC to be familiar with the pre-flight planning and preparation requirements for night flying, as well as the effects of decreased visibility and orientation that occur during night hours. For safety, the pilot must feel confident in their ability to perform all maneuvers safely and effectively in low-light conditions.
Note that the requirements may be more stringent if the flight is for commercial purposes or under instrument flight rules (IFR). For more specific details, pilots should always consult the current edition of the Federal Aviation Regulations or speak with a certified flight instructor.