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3 Answers

Can I file an IFR flight plan?

Asked by: 8473 views , ,
Private Pilot

With just a "Private Pilot Single Engine Land" rating could I file an IFR flight plan, even without an instrument rating as long as the weather is VFR along my route?

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3 Answers



  1. Aaron on Sep 28, 2013

    § 61.3 Requirement for certificates, ratings, and authorizations.

    (e) Instrument rating. No person may act as pilot in command of a civil aircraft under IFR or in wedone o
    ather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for VFR flight unless that person holds:

    (1) The appropriate aircraft category, class, type (if required), and instrument rating on that person’s pilot certificate for any airplane, helicopter, or powered-lift being flown;

    (2) An airline transport pilot certificate with the appropriate aircraft category, class, and type rating (if required) for the aircraft being flown;

    (3) For a glider, a pilot certificate with a glider category rating and an airplane instrument rating; or(4) For an airship, a commercial pilot certificate with a lighter-than-air category rating and airship class rating.

    so in other words, no. you need a rating to file and fly IFR. aside from that, it is also one of the most valuable ratings you can get. it just may save your life some day.

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  2. Mark Kolber on Sep 28, 2013

    Aaron quoted the correct regulation. But just in case you are purposely asking the famous trick question, yes a private pilot without an instrument rating may file an instrument flight plan. Just may not open it and accept and fly the clearance acting as PIC.

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  3. Aaron on Sep 28, 2013

    Mark is correct. my bad, I should have clarified this in my response. I figured since you mentioned VMC weather your intentions would be too fly. to reiterate: anyone can FILE a fight plan. in order to FLY one must posses all necessary ratings and licenses applicable to the operation in question.

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