What is the minimum horizontal distance a pilot must maintain from clouds during nighttime flight in Class E airspace?

During nighttime flight in Class E airspace, the minimum horizontal distance that pilots must maintain from clouds is 1 mile. This requirement is set to ensure that pilots have adequate visibility and can avoid potential hazards associated with clouds, which can obstruct their view and create difficult flying conditions. Maintaining a distance of 1 mile helps provide sufficient separation from clouds, thereby enhancing safety regarding other aircraft and terrain. This regulation is designed to reduce the risk of flying into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and to support visual flight rules (VFR) operations.