What must a pilot do if their aircraft does not meet the lighting requirements at night?

When an aircraft does not meet the lighting requirements at night, the pilot must prioritize safety and compliance with regulations. Landing immediately is essential because inadequate lighting affects visibility and safety for both the pilot and others in the airspace. Flying without proper lighting can lead to potential hazards, such as collisions or loss of situational awareness. Therefore, landing ensures that the aircraft is safely on the ground, allowing the pilot to address the lighting issue before making any further flight decisions. This requirement is in place to ensure not only the safety of the pilot but also the integrity of the air traffic system as a whole.