In which conditions are IFR procedures required?

• A. In Instrument Meteorological Conditions.
• B. In Visual Meteorological Conditions.
• C. Only during takeoff.
• D. Only when flying at night.

Answer: (A)

IFR procedures are required whenever you are operating under instrument flight rules, which is in Instrument Meteorological Conditions. When the weather prevents references to the outside world (clouds, fog, low visibility), pilots must rely on the cockpit instruments, follow an IFR flight plan, obtain ATC clearance, and use published instrument procedures for navigation, departure, en route, and approaches. Visual conditions do not mandate IFR procedures, because VFR flight follows different rules; IFR can be used in VMC only if specifically assigned, but that isn’t required by weather. IFR rules apply to the entire flight, not just during takeoff or at night, and they come into play whenever IMC is present.