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3 Answers

How soon after check ride can a pilot file IFR flight plan

Asked by: 2562 views Instrument Rating

Basically thats the question, I took the Instrument check ride today and passed YEA !!! I am planning a trip to branson Mo from north tx tomorrow... so my question is how soon after the check ride does a pilot have to wait to be able to file an IFR flight plan and start working within the "system" ??   Thanks

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3 Answers



  1. John D Collins on Oct 02, 2015

    Right after the examiner hands you your temporary pilot certificate and you sign it.

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  2. Mark Kolber on Oct 02, 2015

    John is absolutely correct but I think the question might reflect a slight misunderstanding of the IFR flight plan filing and clearance system. There is nothing in the system that verifies your pilot credentials. Not the flight plannning computers. Not ATC. In fact, many pilot have (illegally) filed, opened and flown IFR flight plans without any instrument rating and, I would guess, even without a pilot certificate.

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  3. David Vancina on Oct 03, 2015

    It was about 30 minutes for me! I was emotionally and mentally exhausted after the testing, but I felt like if I didn’t make a habit of getting in the system I’d make a habit of avoiding it. I’m glad I made that call.

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