Ode to IFR

But an instrument rating is only any good if you use it. Basic attitude instrument flying skills and procedural knowledge degrade quickly, so practicing instrument flying regularly is essential to flying safely and confidently in the clouds.

According to an analysis by the AOPA Air Safety Institute, accidents caused by VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions are the most fatal of weather-related accidents in general aviation. The unexpected loss of visual references can lead to a loss of control from spatial disorientation or controlled flight into terrain, and an instrument rating alone doesn’t safeguard against VFR into IMC accidents: Nearly one third of pilots in VFR into IMC accidents between 2008 and 2020 held an instrument rating. Safely flying in low visibility requires both keeping current in the skills to maintain control and navigate without outside reference and participating in the system designed to keep aircraft safely separated—practice and file.

The rigors of the instrument rating reflect the additional risks associated with flying in the soup. Pilots learn to maintain spatial and situational awareness and control the airplane even when a primary flight instrument fails. During training, peaceful enroute segments typical of cross-country flying disappear into an endless series of holds and approaches. Bumping along on sunny summer days with Foggles obstructing the natural horizon only turns up the heat.

After the rating, the world of instrument flying expands. In “Head in the Clouds,” which begins on p. 34, Alicia Herron explains the myriad benefits of earning an instrument rating: enhanced safety, more flying days, access to airspace, and more. I’ve realized many of these benefits in my own IFR flying—cutting through Philadelphia or New York Class B airspace because IFR traffic isn’t met with “remain clear of the Bravo,” or enjoying the serenity of the frequency on a calm, cloudy day when VFR traffic remains on the ground. Plus, emerging from the top of a cloud to the smooth air above a blanket of white feels like the triumphant scene of a fantasy movie.

My first experience in actual IMC was during primary training, when instead of canceling, my instructor filed IFR. The experience introduced me to the cadence and structure of ATC transmissions; the sensation of popping in and out of clouds, adjusting my visual reference between inside and out; and the otherworldly experience of plunging into the vapor and emerging on the other side.

I was fortunate to have instructors for primary and instrument training who valued real IFR experience and gave me an opportunity to file and fly under their guidance. Many instructors don’t. I recently spoke with a colleague who completed her instrument rating without ever flying in actual instrument conditions. It seems like a lost opportunity. Flying in the IFR system and in instrument conditions presents challenges and rewards that view-limiting devices just can’t replicate. Fortunately, on her recent instrument proficiency check she got to experience the magic of breaking through the clouds.

In spite of all the benefits of maintaining instrument flying skills, I’ve let my instrument currency lapse. A swath of dreary weather blanketing the mid-Atlantic this week has motivated me to correct that, as rain dotted the windows and clouds lingered overhead for days. I canceled a flight for forecast IFR conditions—not a big deal, as I didn’t have to be anywhere right away. But wouldn’t it be nice to break through to sunshine above? Instrument flying is equal measures of work and reward. It’s time for me to get to work.