Which instrument is essential for navigation during night flights in powered aircraft?

The magnetic compass is an essential instrument for navigation during night flights in powered aircraft because it provides pilots with directional orientation that is crucial for navigating safely after sunset, when visual references are limited. The compass helps pilots determine their heading and make necessary course corrections to reach their destination.

During nighttime, the visibility of the horizon and ground features typically diminishes, making it difficult for pilots to rely on visual navigation methods. The magnetic compass serves as a reliable reference that can operate independently of external light sources or celestial references.

While other instruments, such as the vertical speed indicator, altimeter, and airspeed indicator, provide valuable information regarding altitude and performance, they do not provide the directional information essential for navigation. In many cases, pilots may also utilize GPS or other navigation systems, but the magnetic compass remains a fundamental tool, particularly as a backup for ensuring navigational accuracy.