Between sunset and sunrise, what is the minimum distance from the landing threshold when a Category II aircraft is behind a Category I?

• A. Clear of the runway
• B. 3,000 feet
• C. 1,500 feet
• D. 5,000 feet

Answer: (A)

Night operations change how separation is applied when an aircraft with Cat II capabilities follows a Cat I on approach. In this scenario the key requirement is for the trailing Cat II to be completely off the runway before the situation is considered properly sequenced. Being off the runway ensures there’s no risk of the second aircraft interacting with the lead’s landing, and it provides a safe buffer given reduced visibility after sunset. Therefore, the minimum is simply to be clear of the runway rather than a fixed distance in feet. The numeric distances listed in the other options aren’t the applicable rule here; they don’t address the safety concern of a trailing Cat II behind a Cat I in nighttime operations.