A large number of non-pilot passengers have told me they don’t like flying in clouds. They want to be able to see the world outside the window. If you are going to be in actual instrument conditions, say so ahead of time and give a brief explanation about what to expect. I’ve had some pilot friends indicate that their spouses were so uncomfortable with being in clouds that they always flew VFR with them, even if it meant delaying a departure for a couple of days. Their spouses are still willing to fly with them.
Weather Decisions
Key Takeaways:
- Passengers commonly feel uncomfortable or anxious when flying in clouds, encountering thunderstorms, or experiencing icing conditions.
- Pilots should proactively communicate expected instrument flight conditions to passengers and strictly avoid dangerous weather like thunderstorms.
- Prioritize passenger comfort and safety by making significantly more conservative weather decisions than when flying solo, akin to airline practices.
- Consider passenger preferences, even if it means altering flight plans (e.g., flying VFR only), to ensure a positive experience and encourage repeat flights.
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