I Always File IFR

Have you recently looked closely at the airspace system we have to navigate today? Spurious TFRs pop up randomly, and its only getting worse. I dont have to worry about any of that. I file what I want and if ATC doesnt want me there, they, uh, tell me where to go.

Frank Bowlin

Saturday, June 09, 2018 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Filing IFR simplifies navigation through complex airspace (e.g., TFRs, MOAs) by leveraging ATC for routing and avoiding planning hassles.
IFR provides proactive readiness for unexpected weather changes and offers greater flexibility in requesting optimal altitudes for conditions or aircraft performance.
Consistently flying IFR maintains proficiency with the system, enhances safety through continuous ATC advisories and traffic monitoring, and provides a sense of comfort and commitment.

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Many of us almost never file IFR. And there are many—like me—who almost always file IFR. In fact, outside of an occasional early cancellation or a trip around the patch for an extra landing or a test flight, I haven’t flown VFR in, well, longer than I can remember. And I’ve got my reasons beyond the crusty, retired airline pilot’s mantra of, “That’s the way we did it in the airlines.”

Have you recently looked closely at the airspace system we have to navigate today? Spurious TFRs pop up randomly, and it’s only getting worse. I don’t have to worry about any of that. I file what I want and if ATC doesn’t want me there, they, uh, tell me where to go.