Should I File an Initial Approach Fix?

After checking the weather, select an approach and file to an initial approach fix for it.

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 10:03 AM ET

Verified

Check the weather and see what approaches are being supported by the conditions, then select an approach and file to an initial approach fix (IAF) for that approach. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

When filing an IFR flight plan, always determine the most suitable instrument approach based on weather and file to its Initial Approach Fix (IAF), rather than just the airport.
Filing to a specific IAF is critical for lost communication procedures (AVE F), as it helps ATC predict your actions, protect airspace, and identify your aircraft.
Consider shortening your estimated time en route by about five minutes to potentially receive earlier approach clearance, but always be prepared to fly any approach assigned by ATC, as your filed approach is a request.

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Question: I am working on my instrument rating, and I have a question about filing to another airport. One of the CFIIs I fly with told me to file to the airport but not a particular fix because it’s really up to ATC to decide what the pilot should do. Another CFII told me to check the weather, see what the flow is, and file to an initial approach fix for an approach in use. Who is correct?

Answer: I advocate checking the weather and seeing what approaches are being supported by the conditions, then select an approach and file to an Initial Approach Fix (IAF) for that approach.