Why pilots need a dedicated flashlight
FAR 91.519 requires that each pilot on a flight at night carry a flashlight. For student pilots pursuing night currency (required before carrying passengers at night), a quality flashlight is non-negotiable. You need it for three specific uses: preflight inspection in low-light conditions, cockpit reference during night flight, and emergency use if cockpit lighting fails.
The wrong flashlight creates problems in the cockpit. A bright white flashlight destroys your night vision — it takes 20–30 minutes for your eyes to fully readjust after white light exposure. Aviation flashlights use red LED mode to preserve night vision during cockpit reference without impacting your ability to see outside the aircraft.
Never use a bright white flashlight inside the cockpit at night unless it's an emergency. White light kills your night vision for up to 30 minutes. Use red mode for all cockpit tasks — charts, checklists, instrument cross-check.
Our pick — Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
- Dedicated red LED mode — preserves night vision completely during cockpit use
- Headlamp design frees both hands for preflight inspection
- Powerful white mode (450 lumens) for thorough preflight in dark conditions
- Rechargeable via USB — charges from any power bank or wall outlet
- Compact and lightweight — fits in any flight bag pocket
- Tiltable beam — point it exactly where you need it
- Trusted outdoor brand with proven reliability
- Headlamp style not ideal for keeping in a shirt pocket during flight
- Rechargeable battery means you must remember to charge it
Best compact option — Streamlight Stylus Pro
- Slim pen profile — clips to shirt pocket for instant access in the cockpit
- White and red LED modes
- Excellent build quality — Streamlight is a trusted professional brand
- AAA batteries — easy to replace anywhere
- Inexpensive
- Lower brightness than a headlamp for preflight
- Handheld — occupies one hand during use
- No hands-free option
What to avoid
Avoid cheap single-mode white flashlights with no red mode — they'll destroy your night vision. Avoid rechargeable lights that use proprietary charging cables you might not have in your flight bag. Avoid anything that doesn't have a secure clip or pocket attachment — a flashlight rolling around the cockpit floor during flight is a distraction and a hazard.