It All Adds Up

Elaine Kauh

Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at 09:06 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

IFR flight planning is a complex balance of aircraft performance, weather (especially headwinds), passenger comfort, and strict FAA fuel regulations, particularly §91.167.
The FAA clarifies that IFR alternate fuel requirements mean having enough fuel to successfully *land* at the destination, then fly to the alternate, and subsequently operate for an additional 45 minutes, rather than merely enough for an "attempted approach."
Real-world variables often necessitate multiple planning adjustments—such as route changes, altitude modifications, or intermediate fuel stops—to ensure regulatory compliance and safety when facing cumulative challenges like reduced fuel, headwinds, or airspace restrictions.

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Three hours in a single, even a roomy one like the sturdy Piper Dakota, seems to be about the maximum sitting time for most PICs and especially their passengers. It also happens to be a good time to refuel, as the typical four-to-five-hour endurance allows for landing with ample reserves when it’s time for a break.

This makes Miles City, Montana (KMLS) a perfect weekend fishing getaway by air—you and two family members can be there in just under 2.5 hours from Bismarck, North Dakota (KBIS). Plenty of time, plenty of fuel. Now, that’s with no wind, no weather, and no changes. No such cross-country flight ever really happens, but we can always wish…