Hi Ilavalle
Interesting question.
Having owned a good number of aeroplanes over the years and flown many different types here is what I know.
Most DeHaviland products like the DHC-1, DHC-2, DHC-3 and so on used two red bulbs at the bottom of each instrument. They could be dimmed or regulated by turning a knob.
Aircraft like the DC3, DC4 and DC6 were also the same.
Some aircraft like the C130 have multi-colored lighting which also includes white lighting.
On any aeroplane I flew the radio, nav station and engineers station were all separate lighting systems.
On aeroplanes requiring two pilots each pilot could control the lighting on his flying instruments.
Aircraft like the Cessna 337 had red, blue or white lighting depending I think on the year and to who the aircraft was being used by, such and the United States Military, a commercial operator or for general aviation use.
I owned a C337 with blue lighting however I flew a commercial one which had white and red lighting. I have had several C172s with different lighting systems as well. I have had the red lighting with the control in the ceiling and I have had individual instrument lighting.
When you purchase a new aircraft today it is a considerable investment, you sit down with the sales department and basically tell them what you want.
I myself prefer manual flaps on the C172 over electric flaps and that is what I ordered.
It is like ordering your first new car, have the manufacturer install the options you want, it will probably be cheaper in the long run.
Oh and yes one can have lighting systems changed, just like upgrading radio and nav equipment. It all costs money but it can be done.
Good luck on your night flying you will find it quite enjoyable.
Cheers...Happy Landings...Doug
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