IFR Around the World

Lessons came from all around the world. The instrument flying I learned applies almost 1:1 overseas. Yet, subtle nuances-often procedural-coupled with psychological perceptions of difference, did come to light. For example: While its one thing to be between stations over the Rockies, what about in Bangladesh?

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, February 02, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

While 90% of IFR flight procedures are universal, significant differences exist in international ATC practices, requiring pilots to be more self-reliant and proactively plan for non-radar environments and terrain avoidance.
Pilots must adapt to less direct guidance from ATC, including providing their own descent and approach planning, and communicating intentions clearly rather than expecting options.
Key practical takeaways include the critical importance of keeping navigation databases current, being prepared for unexpected situations like overloaded controllers, and maintaining high situational awareness.
Ultimately, the challenges encountered during international IFR flying highlight universal principles of thorough planning, proactivity, and pilot responsibility that are applicable in any airspace.

See a mistake? Contact us.

The controller said, “Mooney N231WG, there’s one departed aircraft 12 miles southwest, 7000 feet, climbing FL380. No other traffic indicated. Call when you’re outbound.”

Wait, that’s it? We’re at FL150 20 NM southwest of Narsarsuaq, Greenland, in IMC with 7000-foot peaks all around the sea level airport. And that’s it? It’s up to us to safely descend 15,000 feet on an NDB approach with all those mountains around, not to mention avoid that departed jet? No guidance, no clearance, no radar. Just let them know?