Prior to carrying passengers at night, what must the pilot in command have accomplished?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of specific experience for safety while carrying passengers at night. Before a pilot in command can transport passengers during nighttime operations, they must have completed takeoffs and landings in the same category, class, and type of aircraft. This requirement is in place to ensure that the pilot is adequately familiar with the aircraft's handling characteristics and procedures, especially in low-visibility conditions typical of night flying.

The distinction between category, class, and type is crucial here. Category refers to broad classifications such as airplane or rotorcraft, class further narrows it down to specific types of aircraft within those categories, and type refers to particular aircraft models that have unique characteristics requiring additional training. Meeting this standard ensures pilots possess the necessary skills and confidence to handle the operational challenges associated with nighttime flight, particularly when passengers are onboard.

Other options fall short of this comprehensive requirement. For instance, just having any takeoff and landing experience does not address the need for specific familiarity with the aircraft involved. Similarly, while night flight training with an instructor is beneficial, it’s not a requirement outlined in regulations for carrying passengers at night, making the detailed experience in the same category, class, and type of aircraft critical for safety and competence.