What is required for a PIC carrying passengers on a single engine under night VFR?

To operate as a pilot in command (PIC) carrying passengers at night under visual flight rules (VFR) in a single-engine aircraft, an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) rating is essential. Night operations introduce a greater degree of risk, and the IFR rating ensures that the pilot is trained to fly solely by reference to instruments, which is particularly important when visibility is reduced at night. This skill set helps pilots effectively manage unexpected situations, such as navigating through low visibility or dealing with potential weather changes.

Although a private pilot license with a night endorsement or an endorsement from an instructor might allow a pilot to fly at night, those qualifications alone do not address the complexities and safety concerns associated with carrying passengers during night VFR operations. Moreover, a commercial pilot license is not a requirement specifically for night VFR operation of a single-engine aircraft, as the private pilot can carry passengers at night if properly endorsed. Therefore, the IFR rating is the correct and safest choice for ensuring the pilot is adequately prepared for night flight operations carrying passengers.