(Self) Restricted IFR

Reader Durocher went on to point out that many countries have varying levels of Instrument certification/licensing. While each level is permitted some IMC flight, only the most advanced levels get the same capabilities the U.S. offers a private pilot with an instrument rating. The idea is to provide basic instrument flight training without the intricacies of departures and approaches, then permit IMC flight only enroute, with VMC-only take-offs and landings.

Key Takeaways:

• The article discusses a reader's suggestion for tiered instrument flight certification in the U.S. to better align pilot proficiency with legal flying privileges, noting that current U.S. regulations grant broad capabilities to all instrument-rated pilots regardless of experience.
• The author, while acknowledging the appeal of varied certification levels, argues against more regulation and instead advocates for pilots to adopt "personal minimums."
• Personal minimums involve pilots setting stricter operational limits for themselves, based on their individual experience, comfort, and proficiency, as a self-imposed safety buffer beyond legal minimums, especially in challenging conditions.

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