IFR Flight Planner - All You Need To Know

IFR Flight Plans

Understanding IFR flight plans is essential for pilots flying under such a planning process. As planning allow pilots to fly primarily with reference to their cockpit instruments it is imperative that a detailed flight plan is constructed for each flight. IFR flight plans are usually operated in adverse weather conditions when visibility is poor and it is difficult to see the horizon. As the pilot relies on their instruments understanding an plan means the aircraft can travel in such conditions and arrive at its destination safely. Using a plan does require extra training and ensures that the pilot is made aware of any situations that may require extra attention. It also means that rescuers will be alerted to the most likely position of an aircraft in the event of trouble and also ensures that air traffic control can monitor its route/s.

The difference between VFR and IFR

As IFR allows pilots to fly relying on the aircraft instruments, VFR gives the pilot more freedom to navigate the aircraft based on visuals from outside the aircraft. The submission of VFR flight plans is only required in certain circumstances, however does need planning. Should the aircraft be travelling over international borders a flight should be filed as well as informing air traffic control whilst the crossing takes place. Although in some circumstances a VFR plan may be required it is not the case on the majority. Where this differs from IFR planning is because visual meteorological conditions result in less dangerous conditions where visibility is not restricted.

The submission of IFR flight plan documents

IFR rules can be very rigorous, however the safety of an aircraft always rests upon the pilots shoulders. If the pilot of a flight travelling using IFR decides not to accept the clearance that has been given that is perfectly acceptable, given that decision was based with the safety of the aircraft and the people on board it in mind. To ensure the safety of both the aircraft and those within it, IFR plans need to contain great detail. Relying on instruments within the cockpit a number of factors need to be analysed such as meteorological conditions, flight altitudes and fuel requirements. An IFR plan will take all of these into consideration as part of the process and once these plans are complete they are submitted to the departure tower at the aerodrome in which the flight will depart from. Alternatively, a plan can be created using an online company, giving route suggestions resulting in an IFR flight plan being conducted automatically and submitted once complete.

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