During startup at night, which light setting is recommended?

During startup at night, it is recommended to keep the panel and interior lights off to minimize glare in the cockpit. Having the interior lights on high could impair the pilot's night vision and create reflections on the windshield, making it difficult to see outside.

Keeping the panel/interior lights off helps the pilot to adjust to the outside darkness and maintain better night vision, which is crucial for performing maneuvers and maintaining situational awareness during pre-flight and startup procedures. By preserving night vision, a pilot is better equipped to observe any potential hazards that may come into view.

While maintaining proper lighting is essential, it's crucial not to over-illuminate the cockpit, particularly during startup when visual scanning outside is vital for safe operation.