When flying a VFR approach at night, what is the common tendency among pilots?

When flying a VFR approach at night, pilots often exhibit a tendency to approach at a lower altitude than normal. This occurs because the visual cues that help in evaluating height above the ground are significantly diminished in low-light conditions. At night, without the visual landmarks that are easily recognizable during the day, pilots may misjudge their altitude perception, leading them to fly a lower-than-normal approach.

This can be problematic because it increases the risk of obstacles, as the pilot might not see them until it's too late to take evasive action. Additionally, landing at lower than intended altitudes can lead to a more challenging landing environment, particularly with respect to flare and touchdown points. Therefore, it’s crucial for pilots to be acutely aware of this tendency and adjust their approach technique accordingly, ensuring they maintain a safe altitude and use all available tools, such as instruments and lights, to assist with a safe landing.