What might a pilot confuse while descending over a dark area?

When descending over a dark area, a pilot may confuse the altitude of their aircraft. This is largely due to the limited visual references available in low-light conditions. Without distinct ground features or landmarks to gauge their position relative to the terrain, pilots may struggle to accurately assess how high they are above the ground.

In darkness, the lack of recognizable visual cues can lead to a misperception of altitude, increasing the risk of flying too low without realizing it. It is crucial for pilots to rely on their instruments, such as the altimeter, to maintain safe altitude levels, especially when flying in conditions where visibility is greatly reduced. Properly monitoring altitude is essential for safe navigation and avoiding hazards like obstacles or terrain.