How long after sunset does night currency begin?

Night currency for private pilots is defined as the period of time in which a pilot is considered current to act as pilot-in-command of aircraft during night flying. According to the regulations, night begins 1 hour after sunset. This means that after sunset, the light diminishes, marking the end of daylight flying, and pilots must account for their experience in night conditions starting from this point.

The significance of this timeframe is crucial for safety and proficiency in night flying. Flying an aircraft at night presents different challenges due to reduced visibility, and having established timeframes helps ensure that pilots maintain the necessary currency and experience to handle such conditions effectively.

In contrast, the other options relate to times before or during twilight, but they do not capture the essence of what constitutes night flying according to aviation regulations. Civil twilight is the period where there is enough light for most outdoor activities, but it's not the phase that defines night for currency. Therefore, the correct understanding hinges on recognizing that night currency indeed begins 1 hour after sunset.