When may an aircraft be authorized to LUAW between sunset and sunrise?

An aircraft may be authorized to Line Up and Wait (LUAW) between sunset and sunrise if such action has been approved by the Service Area Director of AT operations. This directive ensures that aircraft operations during nighttime conditions are managed with heightened awareness of safety protocols, as the risk factors associated with low visibility can be greater during these hours. The approval from a high-level authority indicates that there is a clear and assessed understanding of the situation, ensuring that safety measures are in place and that the operation meets necessary guidelines.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the regulatory or procedural requirement for authorizing LUAW at night. Visibility alone, the presence of other aircraft, or runway lighting might be considerations but do not supersede the necessity of having proper approval from the Service Area Director. Therefore, the focus is on the formal oversight for safety assurance during those critical hours.