When must standard position lights be displayed?

Standard position lights must be displayed from 30 minutes before sunset until 30 minutes after sunrise as a means of ensuring visibility and safety during times of low light. This regulation is designed to help other pilots and ground personnel identify the aircraft and its orientation, as well as to prevent collisions both in the air and on the ground. The lighting requirements aim to maximize visibility and minimize the risk of accidents during critical periods when natural light is insufficient, making this time frame essential for all aircraft operating under visual flight rules.

The other options suggest conditions that either do not encompass the full requirement or are not sufficient for ensuring safety. For example, displaying position lights during all phases of flight does not acknowledge the specific time restrictions set by regulations. Similarly, limiting their use to only night flights or to instances of low visibility overlooks the importance of maintaining visibility during dawn and dusk, which are pivotal transition times for both pilots and air traffic.