That’s Just Some Clouds
I’m curious about your comment in “It’s Raining Regs” IFR Clinic back in August 2018, where no alternate is required per §91.167 even though the ceiling is only 1800 feet.
LeRoy Melcher
Houston, TX
Readback: August 2021
Key Takeaways:
- Pilots must understand clear definitions (e.g., scattered clouds do not constitute a ceiling) for IFR planning, and exercise Pilot In Command (PIC) discretion under §91.3 for safety and common sense, while recognizing its limits.
- More complex aircraft, despite initial appearances, can often simplify flight planning and reduce "no-go" scenarios due to capabilities like de-icing or pressurization, unlike simpler aircraft more susceptible to weather or density altitude challenges.
- Pilots are expected to promptly comply with ATC instructions, with new instructions superseding previous clearances. However, some avionics systems, like Garmin GTNs, may not fully support useful ATC procedures such as "no-transition" SIDs and STARs, requiring workarounds, though updates are planned.
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