Flaring is a practical and widely accepted method for disposal of relief gases and other combustible vents. The safety and effectiveness of flaring are dependent upon one or more continuously burning pilots for immediate and sustained ignition of gases exiting a flare burner. Pilot failure, for whatever reason, can compromise safety and effectiveness. Pilot failure should be detected quickly and accurately to allow prompt automatic an/or operator response. The advanced flare pilot systems explained in this paper offer increased protection from harsh environmental conditions and rapid notice of pilot flame failure. Recently published industry standards for flare pilot design and performance are also discussed.