What defines a suitable landing zone at night?

A suitable landing zone at night is defined primarily by its dimensions and safety parameters. Specifically, the recommended size of 200 x 200 feet provides enough space for a helicopter to land safely without risk of obstruction. This size allows for adequate maneuverability in tight conditions, reducing the chance of accidents or collisions during landing and takeoff. At night, visibility is reduced, so having a specified area ensures that the aircraft can land safely even with diminished sightlines.

While other factors can contribute to the overall safety of the landing zone, such as lighting and proximity to water sources, they are secondary to the fundamental requirement of having an appropriately sized area. Additionally, ensuring the zone is free from overhanging structures is crucial for safety, but this is part of the overall considerations for landing zone suitability rather than a defining measurement. Thus, the specified dimensions take precedence in defining what makes a landing zone suitable at night.