Final answer:
To operate under VFR at night, an airplane must be equipped with proper lighting such as position and anti-collision lights, illuminated cockpit instruments for hire flights, and navigational and communication instruments suitable for the flight path.
Step-by-step explanation:
To operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at night in an airplane, as stated in Part 91, Subpart F of the Federal Aviation Regulations, certain equipment is required. According to these regulations, the airplane must have adequate lighting which includes but is not limited to, position lights, anti-collision lights, and if the flight is for hire, an illuminated cockpit for night VFR operations. Additionally, the aircraft must be equipped with navigational instruments suitable for the route to be flown, including an altimeter, rate-of-climb indicator, magnetic direction indicator, and a clock. Just as critical is the presence of operational communication equipment suitable for the route and the altitude.
All these instruments and lights are vital for the safety of night VFR flights, allowing for the pilot to maintain spatial orientation, communication with air traffic control, navigation along the flight path, and compliance with other traffic's avoidance procedures.