Night flights: the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by night

Night flights often have a bad image, but this is unjustified – regular travelers know better! In fact, night flights offer many advantages if you follow a few simple tips. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about night flights: What night flights are, which options best suit your travel schedule, and how to get the most out of your night flight. With our helpful tips, you can enjoy a relaxing flight and arrive at your destination the next morning relaxed and refreshed. Discover the pros and cons of night flights and plan your next trip smart!

What are night flights? 

What is a night flight? Before we get into the pros and cons of night flights, it is important to understand what exactly a night flight is. Generally, a night flight is a flight that takes place between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. This time period may vary depending on the airline and the destination, but generally, flights during this time are referred to as night flights. 

But what exactly is a night flight?  

When is it a night flight? Night flights differ from day flights mainly in their departure and arrival times. They offer travelers the opportunity to fly overnight and arrive at their destination the next morning. A night flight is a flight that is carried out during the night time. In Europe, night time is defined according to EASA-OPS as the period between the end of civil twilight and the beginning of civil twilight.

Night flights are often subject to restrictions in order to minimize aircraft noise for residents. These restrictions can go as far as complete night flight bans. For example, many airports have a core time during which only essential flights such as night mail flights or emergency landings are permitted. Despite these restrictions, night flights are generally cheaper than day flights because demand is lower. 

Travelling at night – the safety of night flights 

Booking night flights is generally safe and does not pose any increased risk. Airlines follow strict safety guidelines that apply 24 hours a day, including at night. The likelihood of flight accidents remains constant regardless of the time of day.  

However, there are some factors that may make travelers less likely to prefer night flights. These include lack of sleep and inconvenience when getting to and from the airport. To ensure a pleasant trip, it is important to prepare thoroughly for the night flight and follow the airline’s safety regulations.  

Night flight – preparation 

Preparing for a night flight requires special attention and specific measures to ensure safety. Here are some important aspects: 

• Rest : It is crucial that pilots are fully rested before a night flight, as fatigue can significantly affect safety. 
• Flight planning : Careful flight planning is essential. This includes checking NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) to ensure that all relevant information, such as the functionality of airport lighting, is taken into account. 
• Weather briefing : Particular attention should be paid to the weather forecast, as clouds and other weather conditions can be even more critical during night flights than during day flights. 
• Pre-flight inspection : A thorough pre-flight inspection is important to ensure that the aircraft is in good working order. A flashlight is an indispensable tool for spotting any possible damage or leaks in the dark. 
• Optical illusions : Pilots should be aware of the increased risk of optical illusions during night flights, as there are fewer visual cues. It is important to be informed about typical illusions on the planned route and to know strategies to avoid them. 
• Aircraft equipment : The aircraft must be equipped with special night flying equipment, including instruments such as turn indicator, artificial horizon and gyrocompass. 

How much compensation can I get if my flight is delayed due to a night flight ban?

The amount of any compensation for delays caused by a night flight ban is based on EU passenger rights under Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004:

• Short distance flight delays – up to 1500km – Passengers are due €250 compensation
• Medium distance flight delays – between 1500km and 3500km – Passengers are due €400 compensation
• Long distance flight delays – over 3500km – Passengers are due €600 compensation

According to the EU Air Passenger Rights Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated based on the flight route:

The advantages and disadvantages of traveling by night 

Night flights offer travelers a unique opportunity to make their trips efficient by taking advantage of the night hours for flight. This type of travel has both advantages and disadvantages to consider. On the one hand, night flights allow for time savings and the ability to sleep during the flight, which is especially appealing on long routes. On the other hand, however, they can also pose health risks, sleep disruptions, and logistical challenges. The following sections will explore the advantages and disadvantages of night flights in more detail to help travelers decide if this flight option is right for their needs. 

Advantages of night flights  

• Sleeping option : Passengers can sleep during the flight, which is particularly beneficial on long-haul flights as the perceived flight time is shortened. The likelihood of getting a few hours of sleep at night is greater than during the day. 
• Time saving : Flight time seems to pass faster because passengers can sleep, making travel more pleasant.  
• More flexible schedule : Night flights offer more flexibility in the travel schedule as they often operate outside of regular working hours. 
• Less competition for seats : Because night flights are less popular, it is often easier to get a seat or upgrades. 
• Cost efficiency : Night flights are often cheaper than day flights because demand is lower. 
• Quieter cabin atmosphere : Night flights tend to be quieter on board than day flights. The cabins are often quieter because many passengers are dozing or sleeping, which contributes to a more relaxed flight experience.  
• More convenient arrival time : Passengers arrive in the morning and have the whole day at their destination. If they travel at night and arrive in the morning, they still have the whole holiday or work day ahead of them. 
• Less chance of flight delays : Since there are fewer flights, there is less chance of delays. Air traffic is also often lighter at night, resulting in fewer delays. 
• Fewer distractions : Darkness can lead to fewer distractions, which is beneficial for passengers who want to work or read. 
• Less traffic : Airports are often less crowded at night, which can lead to shorter wait times at check-in and security. 

Disadvantages of night flights  

• Sleep disorders : Many people have difficulty sleeping on airplanes, which leads to tiredness and fatigue. 
• Jet lag : Night flights can worsen jet lag as they often involve time zone changes. 
• Limited availability of services : Airport facilities and services such as shops and restaurants are often closed or have limited availability at night. 
• Restrictions due to night flight bans : Night flights cannot land at every airport. Many airports have night flight bans or restrictions that can limit the flexibility of flight planning. 
• Fewer connecting options : The availability of connecting flights may be limited, resulting in longer waiting times. 
• Limited medical care : In the event of a medical emergency, the availability of medical personnel and facilities may be limited. 
• Check-in at the hotel : If you arrive at your destination at night, you may have problems checking in at the hotel. After all, not all accommodations have a reception open 24 hours a day. 
• Day-night rhythm : Night travel can disrupt the natural day-night rhythm and thus affect our sleep and our health.  
• Difficulty finding your way around : If you arrive at an unfamiliar airport at night, finding your way around is even more difficult than during the day when it is light. 
• The breathtaking view from the airplane window falls flat in the darkness.  

Tips on how to arrive relaxed after a night flight

The following tips will help you make your night flight more pleasant and arrive at your destination relaxed. 

Tips before your flight 

• Seat selection : Choose a seat that suits you best. If you want to sleep, make sure you have enough legroom and choose a window seat. Why? Because the headrests are easier to lean against and you won’t be disturbed by passing passengers. 
• Light meals : Eat easily digestible foods before the flight to avoid stomach upset. 
• Compression stockings : Wear compression stockings to promote blood circulation and prevent swelling. 
• Adjust your sleep rhythm/sleep pattern : Try to adjust your sleep rhythm (your sleeping habits) to the new time zone (time difference) a few days before the flight. 
• Hydration : Drink plenty of water before your flight to avoid dehydration. 
• Comfortable clothing : Choose comfortable and loose clothing that does not restrict or pinch to keep you comfortable during the flight. 
• Prepare your entertainment : Download audiobooks, movies or music onto your devices to keep you entertained during the flight. 
• Pack travel essentials : Pack an eye mask, ear plugs and a neck pillow for increased sleeping comfort. 
• Liquids in carry-on luggage : Make sure all liquids are travel-sized and packed in a clear bag. 
• Check in early : Use online check-in to avoid stress at the airport and secure a good seat.  
• Arrive at the airport on time : Allow yourself enough time to arrive at the airport relaxed and go through security. 

Tips during the flight 

• Maintain hydration : Drink plenty of water during the flight and avoid caffeinated drinks. 
• Exercise on the plane : Stand up and stretch regularly to promote blood circulation. 
• Comfortable sitting position : Use pillows or neck rolls to find a comfortable sleeping position. 
• Relaxation techniques : Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress. 
• Light snacks : Eat light snacks to keep blood sugar levels stable and avoid stomach upset. 
• Use entertainment : Use your prepared entertainment program to distract yourself and pass the time. 
• Skin care : Use moisturizing creams to avoid dry skin caused by airplane air. 
• Eye care : Use eye drops to prevent dry eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. 
• Sleep masks and earplugs : Use sleep masks and earplugs to block out light and noise and help you sleep better. 
• Avoid alcohol : Avoid alcohol as it can increase dehydration and disrupt sleep. 

FAQ – Frequently asked questions: Night flight