Gary Drescher wrote:

However, the fatality rate at night is indeed higher (and for night IMC,
it's higher still). But I don't know whether that's due to a greater danger
following an engine failure or electrical failure, or instead due to the
danger of, for example, maneuvering accidents during circling approaches
under a low ceiling. If the latter, the increased danger could be eliminated
by avoiding such approaches at night.

An excellent suggestion. Years ago our airline raised the minimum
altitude for circling approaches to 1000' HAA. A few years later it
eliminated circling approaches altogether. A wise move which more
operators should follow -- in particular those non-professionals who
don't do them on a regular basis.

You may have gotten away with one or a few, but night circling
approaches in unfavorable weather conditions are among the most
difficult things to do safely. Without regular, frequent practice and
familiarity with the equipment, facilities, and procedures you are far
better off without them, in the long run.


Jack