What is a significant requirement for an air taxi's operator in order to conduct operations at night?

The requirement that an air taxi's operator must adhere to in order to conduct operations at night is that the aircraft must be turbine powered. This is primarily due to the need for reliability and performance in potentially challenging nighttime flying conditions. Turbine-powered aircraft generally offer more consistent performance and better safety margins compared to piston engines, especially during critical phases of flight such as takeoff and landing at night when visibility can be poor.

Night operations demand higher levels of safety and operational capability because pilots encounter more complex visual cues and navigation challenges. Turbine engines typically have a more reliable thrust output, which becomes crucial during nighttime operations. This underscores the importance placed on having appropriate aircraft for night-time operations, reflecting regulatory and safety standards within the aviation industry.